best travel iphone case

The Best Protective iPhone Cases for Adventure Lovers

An adventurous or active lifestyle means you're more likely to invest in an iPhone that takes great pictures and videos to capture your favorite memories, such as the iPhone 12 Pro or Pro Max. Unfortunately, adventure and shenanigans go hand in hand with an increased likelihood of dropping or damaging your phone. I can't count the number of times my iPhone has fallen off of a rock climbing wall, slipped out of my backpack on a hike, or tumbled from a saddle bag while riding. Needless to say, I'm a bit of a protective iPhone case connoisseur, and I have high expectations of any case I use. With that in mind, I've put together a list to help you narrow down your search for the best drop-tested, shock proof, or otherwise strong and durable iPhone case.

Related:  The Best iPhone Cases of 2020: 7 Phone Wallet Cases You'll Love

The 5 Best iPhone 12 Protective Cases

I'm a big fan of protective phone cases that combine utility with aesthetics, but I always want to hear reviews from other users before committing to buying one. These top picks should help you narrow down your search for the best iPhone 12 case to keep your phone safe from drops, shocks, and scrapes, no matter your budget.

1. My Favorite Protective iPhone Case:  LifeProof NËXT ($79.99)

Top features:

• 5G compatible
• MagSafe compatible
• Qi wireless charging compatible
• Drop proof, dirt proof, snow proof
• Military grade drop protection to two meters (MIL STD 810G)
• Global warranty protection for 1–2 years depending on location

I'm a big fan of this iPhone case. I'm most thrilled by the ability to use such a protective phone case while still having direct-touch access to my iPhone's screen, thanks to the silicone gasket surrounding it that offers protection not only from shocks, but also from minor water intrusion (hence the snow proof rating). It does, however, mean that I'll have to buy a separate screen protector.

This case is thinner than most truly rugged cases, and it's clear so I can still see my iPhone through the back of the 55 percent recycled plastic shell. There's also a rubberized clear seal around the camera on the back and the inside edges of the case halves, which offers further protection from snow, dust, and dirt, and which allows the  NËXT case to claim a 2-meter military-standard drop protection capability. This seal can also be found around the buttons, microphone, and speakers. The silicone outer ring, where you see the gorgeous Clear Lake, Napa, or Black Crystal color, is the final layer of protection, and guards the entire outer edge of the case (and your phone) from scuffs and cracks. It also includes a Ring/Silent toggle, and a flap that secures itself over the charger port opening when the port is not in use.

While being able to see my iPhone through the back of an iPhone case is a huge bonus, I'm skeptical that the case will remain clear and unmarred for long. Scuffs happen, and they're especially apparent on clear plastic. Still, this case won me over for its size, ease of installation, and apparent toughness.  

2. The Beauty That's a Beast:  OtterBox Defender Series Pro ($69.95)

• 4x military grade drop tested (MIL STD 810G)
• Antimicrobial, dust and dirt proof
• Limited lifetime warranty
• Included holster with kickstand

The OtterBox brand is synonymous with protective cases for a reason; the brand's cases are well-known for their durability. While OtterBox cases are by no means cheap, they tend to last quite a while, and that has a lot to do with how they're designed. In the case of the Defender Series Pro , the two-part inner polycarbonate shell is lined on the back with a special foam piece, which contributed to military-standard drop-test success. The outer slipcover is made of synthetic rubber and infused with a silver-based additive to inhibit microbial growth, and includes flaps that fit snugly over the charger opening and the Ring/Silent switch to keep dust and debris out, but to allow user access to each when needed. This three-part design does make the Pro case bulky, but that's quite common with the toughest phone cases.

Like all of the cases on this list, the Defender Series Pro case doesn't include a screen cover, but the raised lips around the front edge and the rear camera help protect both from scratches and shattering when dropped. 

This iPhone 12 protective case comes in several fun colors, my favorite being the Berry Potion Pink shown above (rugged doesn't mean it can't be pink). It also arrives with an holster that doubles as a kickstand. This bonus item seemed cheesy to me at first, but I have to admit that I can picture it coming in extremely handy to keep my phone accessible but also secure.

My one hangup with OtterBox cases is that they almost never come with installation instructions. You'll need to look at the company's how-to video for tips if you struggle with the more complicated Defender Series three-part design.

3. The Toughest, but Not the Prettiest:  Pelican Shield G10  ($60.00)

• 21-foot military grade drop protection 
• Intuitive design
• Lifetime replacement guarantee
• Antimicrobial

At first glance, this protective case feels kind of intense, but when you look at it, everything has a purpose, and it all functions well. It's solid but not overly thick, and it even features metal bolts that appear to be holding the five-layer G10 fiberglass laminate case together. It's not elegant, but it's certainly not ugly either—you can tell the focus was on simplicity and craftsmanship, and to those ends the case absolutely succeeds.

The Pelican Shield G10 is made up of two parts that snap together with a satisfying click, and which are further secured by three hinged latches that also snap shut to keep the case from splitting open on impact (one of these latches doubles as the charger port access). On the inside edges and around the camera, there's a rubberized layer that lends additional shock and shatter protection. Ironically, despite being logical and simple to install, this is the only case in this list that came with installation instructions in the package.

The buttons are mobile and easy to press, and there's a flexible press-closed flap that covers the Ring/Silent switch. This flap is a bit small, meaning you may need a tool to switch your iPhone's ringer on and off if you don't have longer nails. A snap-in holster with a kickstand is included in the package, but I actually struggled to get the kickstand to stay open on the first couple of tries. Once the kickstand loosens up, however, it does function better.

21-foot drop rating makes this the best military grade protective phone case on my list, which is a big deal. This particular case also features MICROPEL  technology, which the company says inhibits growth of microbes.

4. The Strong, Simple Type:  Catalyst Vibe  ($39.99)

• Textured sides for improved grip
• Included wrist lanyard or other strap accessory can attach to any corner
• 10-foot military grade drop rating

This no-frills one-piece iPhone 12 protective case is easy to install and has a kind of understated appeal to it. The Army Green color has a neat geometric design on the back that gives it more character, and the Stealth Black version has a very nice satin-finish carbon fiber design on the back that feels smooth and satisfying to touch. Both colors include texture on the sides that's reminiscent of the grip you'd find on the handle of a weapon, which makes the case easier to hold securely while your iPhone is inside. 

The buttons are a bit stiff, but not enough to cause problems, and the Ring/Silent switch is operated by a clever knob that reminds me of the crown on my Apple Watch. Raised edges protect the camera and screen, of course, but instead of any softer impact-absorbing silicone, this case utilizes built-in air pockets to limit the effect of drops and impacts. Personally, I would prefer it if it had that softer rubberized protection around the edges and the buttons—something about the stiffness feels inadequate to me, though the Vibe's drop test ratings would disagree with me on that, so I guess it's more of a preference. 

The wrist lanyard is great, but I prefer not to have a heavy phone dangling from my wrist while I'm exploring, so I prefer the Coiled Carabiner lanyard ($19.99) which extends and retracts as needed and clips on securely to your belt loop or a loop on your backpack.

One other note about the Catalyst Vibe  protective phone case is that it does have cool channels for the iPhone speakers to help protect them, but the buttons don't get the same treatment, so I could see dust and dirt becoming an issue over time.

5. The Most Affordable Protective Case:  Smartish Gripzilla ($19.99)

• Well-designed, textured grip
• Optional customization
• Great reviews for drop protection

Okay, so this is admittedly not the most high-tech case on this list, but it's here for a reason. Just handling the case itself, I can feel the heft of it, and it feels secure to me. I'm also quite partial to the textured grip; my hands are fairly tough from rock climbing, so sometimes I don't have great luck with smoother surfaces. Both the unique shape and the logic behind the one-piece, slip-on design of the Gripzilla seem promising. I'll give credit for the clever colors, too: Black Tie Affair is a sleek all-black design, Gray Area is a dual-toned gray with a very crisp look, and there is also a sumptuous gray wood-grain that I'm particularly drawn to and a woodland camo design that I could see outdoor enthusiasts preferring. If you really want to, though, you can actually personalize this iPhone 12 protective case to include a photo, letters, and more. The price for the custom iPhone case is still affordable at $34.99, though the design process is a little tedious.

The edges are raised and appropriately protective of the iPhone camera and screen, the primary plastic of the shell has a nice, sturdy flexibility to it, and the interior lining seems like it's of fair quality. The main drawback of this protective phone case is that the speakers and charger port are not covered by any protective material, which means that the primary functions of this case are drop protection and grip instead of weather or dustproofing.

All in all, if you're looking for an affordable but rugged-enough and still protective iPhone case, this one is a great option.

Author Details

Erin MacPherson

Erin is a Web Editor for iPhone Life and has been a writer, editor, and researcher for many years. She has a degree in communication with an emphasis on psychology and communication, and has spent many of her professional years as a coach in various business and specialty fields. Erin officially joined the ranks of iPhone and Apple users everywhere around nine years ago, and has since enjoyed the unique and customized feel of Apple technology and its many gadgets. When she’s not working, Erin and her son enjoy outdoor adventures, camping, and spending time with their eclectic collection of pets.

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The best protective iPhone cases in 2023: our 30 favorites

Apple’s latest iPhones are more durable than ever, thanks to new technologies like Ceramic Shield and IP68 water resistance. However, that doesn’t mean they’re impervious to damage, and replacing your iPhone screen can get pretty costly . That’s why you need a protective iPhone case.

Even if a drop doesn’t result in a cracked screen, it’s still likely to leave unsightly scratches, scuffs, and dents on the elegant glass and aluminum or stainless steel finish, and while you can add some peace of mind against shattered glass with an AppleCare+ plan , this won’t cover cosmetic damage to your iPhone.

As classy as the new iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Pro look on their own, they’re also quite expensive. Scratches and dings don’t look great, but more importantly, they can also impact the trade-in or resale value of your iPhone down the road . So, if you want to protect your investment, the best thing to do is select a case that will shield it from the bumpy roads of your everyday life.

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The good news is that the popularity of the iPhone lineup means that you don’t need to compromise on style to get a protective case. Some may like the rugged look, while others want to show off the gorgeous deep purple of the iPhone 14 Pro Max , or prefer something that’s more unique to their own style. There’s a case for everyone, and we’ve rounded up some of the best if you’re looking to protect your iPhone while still adding some flair of your own. Here are the best protective iPhone cases in 2023!

Best rugged cases

If you live an adventurous lifestyle, or you simply aren’t confident that your iPhone won’t take a tumble, then you want one of the strongest and most rugged cases available. While all the cases in this round-up are designed to protect your iPhone, these go the extra mile by offering the best protection you can get without adding a ton of bulk.

Otterbox Commuter Series Antimicrobial Case

Many people consider Otterbox to be the gold standard when it comes to rugged protection for your iPhone, and the Commuter Series is one of the best it offers. This case is made from 35% recycled plastic and boasts a layered design with a durable synthetic rubber slipcover surrounded by a polycarbonate shell with clean lines that enhance grip. This enables it to provide three times as much drop protection as the MIL-STD-810G 516.6 military standard, so you’d be hard-pressed to find a more durable case. There’s also a silver-based antimicrobial coating that will reduce bacteria growth, helping to keep your phone and your hands clean (although it won’t reduce bacteria growth on the iPhone’s screen). It’s compatible with the Apple MagSafe charger, too. The Commuter Series comes in blue, black, pink (“Maven Way”), and teal (“Riveting Way”).

iPhone 14 Pro:

iPhone 13: 

iPhone 13 Pro: 

Scooch Wingman Case

What’s a better rugged case than the one you’re less likely to drop? Scooch’s Wingman isn’t just a protective case that meets military protection standards, it also comes with Scooch’s unique kickstand. When folded, it sits flush with the case’s back, but when it’s unfurled, it can be used as a kickstand, a finger grip, and even as a car vent mount. This level of utility isn’t common in rugged cases, and it’s great to see a company try something so different. It’s an attractive enough case, too, and we’ve picked the Carbon Fiber variant, but you can also choose from six other designs.

Urban Armor Gear Monarch Case

Rugged protection doesn’t always have to look tough, but no one dares to tell Urban Armor Gear that. UAG’s cases look like something a space marine would use, and there’s no doubt from looking at the Monarch case that it’s tough. It’s made with five layers of protection, including rubber feet that stop your iPhone from slipping from surfaces, plus airbags in each corner to dull the shocks from impacts and drops. While the outer frame may look like metal, it’s actually lightweight plastic. But that little deception doesn’t reduce the protection, and UAG claims the Monarch case can withstand drops of 8 feet up to 26 times with no damage — and it comes with a 10-year limited warranty if it doesn’t perform to standard. It comes in black, red, or a carbon fiber design.

Speck Presidio2 Grip Case

One of our favorite iPhone cases by any measure, the Speck Presidio2 Grip is also pretty rugged. Speck claims it’s 20% thinner than the original Presidio Grip and can withstand drops up to 13 feet. It’s also capable of handling falls and bumps thanks to Armor Cloud technology which works like an airbag to absorb shock and protect your phone. A soft-touch finish enables the case to resist scratches, while the raised rubber ridges on top of the case provide additional grip (hence the name). A raised bezel will keep the screen in perfect condition when face-down, cutouts are precise, and the button covers work well.

There’s also a Microban antimicrobial treatment on this case to prevent any bacteria from building up. This isn’t strictly the most protective case Speck offers — that would probably be the Presidio Sport, which offers 15-foot drop protection — but we think the enhanced grip this case provides makes it a better pick. After all, the best drop protection is to not drop your iPhone in the first place.

iPhone 14 Pro: 

Survivor Strong

This super-tough case from Survivor is designed to survive anything life throws at you. If drop damage is your main concern, this case meets military standards while offering up to 12 feet of drop protection. Its two layers of protection are constructed from both hard and soft bio-resins, ensuring the case is one Survivor’s most protective — and most sustainable. It boasts textured grips on the sides and back to make it less likely you’ll drop your phone, and if you do drop it, parametric shock-absorbing technology ensures it stays safe. This case is scratch- and discoloration-resistant with a raised bezel to protect your screen and camera, and has added microbial defense, too. All this in a slim, lightweight hard shell that comes in black or clear versions. It even ships in recycled packaging.

Supcase Unicorn Beetle Pro Series Case

Fancy a case that looks like it’s straight out of Black Mirror, and offers drop protection of up to 20 feet? This case from Supcase ticks both boxes, and with its dual-layer construction, rubberized grip, and shockproof TPU bumper, it offers serious protection for your iPhone. The built-in screen protector ensures 360-degree protection, so no more smashed screens should you drop your phone. It’s compatible with Apple MagSafe and most other wireless chargers and features a handy built-in kickstand — there’s even a rotatable holster clip, so you don’t need to sling your phone in your bag or pocket. We’d opt for the eye-catching Cerulean version (pictured), but this case also comes in black or red.

Best waterproof cases

Apple’s latest iPhones feature IP68 water resistance, with the iPhone 14 lineup certified to withstand immersion in up to 6 meters of water for up to 30 minutes. However, it’s important to note that this doesn’t make any of Apple’s iPhones waterproof, and even the IP68 rating is for freshwater — all bets are off if your iPhone ends up in a chlorinated swimming pool or a salty ocean. So, if you plan to be around water, it’s a good idea to get a case that’s designed to keep the water out entirely. Here are some of the best waterproof iPhone cases out there.

OtterBox FRĒ (Designed by LifeProof)

Waterproof to a depth of 2 meters (about 6.6 feet) for up to an hour, this LifeProof case is also snow-proof, dirt-proof, and drop-proof. Made using 60% recycled plastic, it boasts a maximum drop height of two meters, meaning you can probably drop it out of a small tree and it will keep your iPhone in one piece. As a waterproof case, it’s completely sealed from front to back to keep out water, yet it has a maximum thickness of only 14.92mm (just over half an inch), so it won’t be too bulky. It also works with Apple’s MagSafe charger and with Qi wireless charging, so you can keep it on pretty much all the time. Pick it up in black, blue, or purple.

Spidercase Waterproof Case

This is a waterproof case that comes with a built-in screen protector and also a scratch-resistant back panel, providing your phone will all-over coverage. It’s a cheaper alternative to the Ghostek Nautical case but not quite as impenetrable by water at greater depths. That said, it will resist exposure to shallow water, so it’s great for casual swimmers (as opposed to divers). It also includes accurate cutouts for the iPhone’s buttons, sensors, and cameras, and it’s compatible with wireless chargers. As a bonus, it incorporates shock-absorbing edges and corners, giving you plenty of insurance against shocks and drops.

Ghostek Nautical Waterproof MagSafe Case

Do you want to make sure your iPhone never comes into direct contact with water? Then the Ghostek Nautical case is the item for you. It consists of a full-body, watertight sealed shell, making it submersible in up to 20 feet of water (about six meters), and it’s IP68 rated. It’s therefore perfect for divers as well as for taking underwater photos. As a bonus, it also has a high-performance rugged design, with shock-absorbing edges and corners, ensuring that your iPhone won’t be breaking or cracking anytime soon. It has been drop-tested to military standards, withstanding drops of up to 12 feet. It’s also compatible with wireless charging and MagSafe accessories, so it’s a great all-around case in its own right.

Best transparent cases

The iPhone is a phenomenally gorgeous device, and you shouldn’t have to hide it away in the name of protection. These tough cases are also clear (to some extent), so you can still show off your smartphone.

Tech21 Evo Lite Case

For those who want to combine a transparent design with superior drop protection, the Evo Lite case from Tech21 ticks both boxes. Super-strong yet ultra-light, it offers up to 10 feet of drop protection and boasts innovative self-cleaning technology built into the case to help it stay clean over time. A raised bezel around the camera keeps it safe should you drop your phone or place it down, and it won’t add bulk to your phone either, making it a great choice if you like to slip your phone into a pocket.

Catalyst Influence Series Case

This case offers drop protection from falls of up to 10 feet (three meters) thanks to air-cushioned engineering — and it has a transparent design that shows off your iPhone, plus a fingerprint-resistant finish. The micro-textured back ensures excellent grip, helping to prevent any drops from happening in the first place. Raised bezels keep your screen safe, and there’s a handy mute button that lets you instantly mute your phone.

Gear4 Santa Cruz Snap Case

The Santa Cruz Snap case from Gear4 offers some of the most advanced impact protection around thanks to D30, a flexible material used for impact protection by the military that’s injection-molded into the case. The D30 used here is a sustainable version called D30 Bio, made with 52% renewable resources, and the case also uses recycled plastics to keep things green. Choose from a clear case with black magnets or blue magnets, compatible with MagSafe chargers. The scratch-resistant surface keeps your case looking as good as new, and it’s designed to protect against drops of up to 13 feet (4 meters). There’s even built-in antimicrobial protection to inhibit the growth of bacteria.

Ringke Fusion Matte Case

Ringke’s Fusion Matte is a translucent clear case with a minimalist design to let the color of your iPhone 14 shine through. Unlike other clear cases, though, Ringke’s Fusion Matte has a frosted that gives it some style and avoids the glossy finish that tends to attract fingerprints. Nevertheless, despite the frosted back, the sides remain transparent. This lets you can see the elegant aluminum or stainless steel flattened edges of your iPhone 14 or iPhone 14 Pro, while the TPU provides a much better grip. Lanyard holes in each bottom corner also let you attach hand straps, wrist lanyards, or even phone charms to accent the design.

Best leather and wallet cases

Nothing has quite the same impact as leather. If you want your iPhone to look (and feel) good as well as be protected, then these are the cases you want.

Torro Leather Wallet Case

Made in the U.K. with genuine cowhide leather, this slimline wallet case is stylish and strong. It combines a durable silicone frame with a soft microfiber lining (to protect the iPhone’s screen), while the addition of a leather upper layer makes it highly durable, capable of withstanding even the most serious of falls. The genuine, luxury leather also feels great to the touch, and the case is appreciably lightweight and slim, so even with a front and back cover, it doesn’t feel bulky. As it’s a leather wallet case, it has slots for cards and cash, and it comes with a magnetic clasp that will keep it securely closed.

Caislean Leather Wallet Case

Here’s a very sleek leather flip case that doubles as protection for your iPhone and as a holder for cards and bills. It’s made of handcrafted PU leather, making it soft and light but also durable. Three slots for cards and one for bills are included, while the outer layer of the case includes RFID shielding material, just in case anyone tries to scan your back pocket. The case includes raised lips for extra screen and camera protection, and its shockproof inner layer also provides added scratch protection. It can also be folded to serve as a kickstand. It’s pretty affordable and comes in seven colors, although one downside is that it isn’t compatible with wireless chargers.

iPhone 14: 

Twelve South BookBook

Twelve South makes some of the nicest-looking Apple accessories you can buy, and its BookBook case for the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Pro leads the pack. This whimsical folio case is designed to resemble a traditional book, with premium leather that will age with a lovely patina over time to give it an even classier weathered look. Inside, you’ll find room for up to four cards and a bit of cash, including a see-through card window for a driver’s license or other form of ID. A magnetic clasp keeps the case securely closed, and the interior shell is removable and usable as an attractive leather-inlaid case of its own for those times you’d rather travel light. Plus, it’s fully MagSafe-compatible for easy attachment to chargers, stands, and car mounts.

Nomad Modern Leather Case

Leather is a hardy material, but often you’ll sacrifice drop protection with a leather case. Not so with this case from Nomad. The base layer of the case is made from hard polycarbonate and combined with a raised TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) bumper around the outside and an internal shock-absorbent air bumper. The addition of high-quality Horween leather from one of America’s oldest tanneries in Chicago imbues the case with leather’s natural durability and luxurious style. The vegetable-tanned leather will develop a gorgeous patina over time, making each case completely unique. This case is drop-tested up to 10 feet, and it has two lanyard attachment points for drop-proofing, plus built-in magnets for MagSafe charging. It’s expensive, but it’s certainly worth the money.

Snakehive Vintage Leather Wallet

If you’re looking for a folio case that will add a bit of elegant old-world class to your iPhone, Snakehive’s Vintage Leather Wallet is worth a serious look. Handcrafted using top-grain nubuck leather, this case looks great as soon as you slide your iPhone into it and will just get even classier over time as the leather develops a rich patina. What’s more, it’s available in some very unique and attractive colors like Bottle Green and teal, giving you more options than just the basic leather brown and black.

Smartish Wallet Slayer

Between Apple Pay  and the advent of digital driver’s licenses , it won’t be long before your iPhone can replace your wallet entirely . Sadly, though, we’re not quite there yet, and most of us have at least a couple of physical cards we still need to carry. However, that doesn’t mean you need to tote around a separate wallet or even resort to a bulky folio case for your iPhone if that’s not your style. That’s where Smartish’s Wallet Slayer comes in, giving you a traditional case that will give you =easy access to your iPhone and your cards. It’s a minimalist case with a dash of whimsy, considering that you can get it in basic black or opt for fun designs with fanciful names like Flirty Floral and You’re Just Jelly. You get room for up to three cards without dealing with a flap over your screen as they slide into a slot on the back, where they’re held in place with a built-in spring mechanism.

Best slim and lightweight cases

Not every case is a big, hefty chunk of plastic that adds inches onto your svelte iPhone. These cases are lightweight and slim while also affording decent protection against everyday drops, bumps, and scrapes.

Ghostek Atomic Slim MagSafe Case

You might not have heard of Ghostek, but it could soon become a household name if it keeps producing cases this good. We’re huge fans of the Atomic Slim case — as the name suggests, it’s slim, but it packs a punch when it comes to protection. It’s constructed from a shock-absorbent TPU inner core and a strong, scratch-resistant polycarbonate back panel and features a lightweight yet tough aluminum frame. There’s some serious drop protection going on here, with this case protecting your phone against drops of up to 12 feet (3.6 meters), as well as a raised bezel that keeps your display and camera lenses safe from dirt and grit and R7X shock absorbing corners. It’s compatible with MagSafe charging too, with built-in magnets. Yes, it’s a little bulkier than a standard silicone case, but it’s one of the slimmest rugged cases around right now and is well worth the price.

Incipio Grip Case

Incipio’s cases are very protective — something that’s reflected in the Incipio case-making process — and the Grip is one of its finest. The Grip case features multidirectional grips to reduce the risk of you dropping your iPhone. If it does happen to slip through your fingers, you’re covered with up to 14 feet of drop protection thanks to Impact Strut technology. Extended raised bezels around the screen offer even more protection — and this case has antimicrobial technology to prevent up to 99.9% of germs and surface bacteria. It works perfectly with wireless charging and Apple Pay, but we’d recommend a screen protector if you want full protection.

Tech21 Evo Check Case

Some of the best rugged iPhone cases can be expensive, but sometimes they’re worth it. We’ve seen firsthand how Tech21 tests rugged cases and its full range offers solid drop protection for your iPhone. The Evo Check has been drop tested from 16 feet, which is a lot higher than the typical height of a smartphone fall. The protection extends around the entirety of the case, with three layers of protection in the bumper to take the sting out of any impact. This case is also relatively light, thin, comfortable to hold, and there’s even built-in antimicrobial protection to keep things nice and hygienic. It has built-in button covers, and generous cutouts for the camera, port, and switch. This case comes in Smokey Black, Sage Green, Lavender, Classic Blue, Light Coral, or Rubine Red, all with interchangeable buttons so you can customize it to your tastes.

Mous Limitless 5.0 Case

Mous somehow manages to combine rugged protection with good looks in the Limitless 5.0 case. The slimmest Limitless case ever, it features AiroShock impact-absorbing technology to protect against drops and bumps, while its tough polycarbonate and TPU construction keep your phone safe. This robust case has an N45 magnet array on the back to ensure compatibility with MagSafe charging and accessories, and Mous sells its own range of magnetic accessories, like a magnetic wallet, should you wish. The Limitless 4.0 comes in black leather, Aramid Fiber, or speckled fabric, or in a choice of two kinds of wood, bamboo or walnut, for a sleek look.

Best cheap cases

Not every case has to put a hole in your wallet, and protection on a budget is possible.

Aedilys Clear Case

This clear case is a bargain for under $20. Made from high-grade TPU and polycarbonate, it has an anti-yellow coating to ensure it stays crystal clear, and it also has flexible shockproof TPU bumpers. Airbag technology disperses shock should you drop your phone — and speaking of drops, it meets military-grade standards for drop protection. With a raised bezel around the screen and camera and a non-slip grip, this super-slim clear case is an excellent budget buy.

Mkeke Clear Case

Here’s a no-nonsense case from Mkeke that offers a slimline profile, flattering transparency, and a sturdy combination of TPU and PC. The mix of a hard PC rear and a flexible yet rugged TPU frame means that it should guard your iPhone 14 or iPhone 14 Pro against everyday accidents and impacts. Its curved shape is also easy to grip, and it includes precise cutouts for all of the phone’s buttons and ports. Transparency is another bonus, providing an inexpensive way of showing off the phone’s good looks.

Spigen Tough Armor Case

Spigen knows tough, and the Tough Armor is one of the toughest in its arsenal. It’s a classic dual-layer shell case, with a flexible TPU inner case paired with a hard polycarbonate outer shell, complete with a horizontal kickstand. The hard outer shell will work wonders at stopping scratches and other such damage, while the inner TPU core will protect your buttons from harm, while also absorbing the impact from drops and shocks. This shock protection has been further enhanced with a layer of impact foam inside the case, along with some strategically placed airbags that help to dissipate energy from impacts. It’s tough, but it’s not the thinnest, and you should be prepared to add a layer of thickness to your phone.

Best fun and cute cases

“Protective” doesn’t have to mean “ugly”, and these cases are, quite simply, adorable. They’re also extremely brawny, so don’t say it to their faces.

Casetify Impact

If you’re looking for a fun and protective case that expresses your unique style, it’s hard to go wrong with the Casetify Impact. With dozens of cool and flashy designs, you’ll have no problem finding one that gives your iPhone the flair you’re looking for. Plus, Casetify doesn’t just have its own original patterns; its massive “Co-Lab” collection features designs licensed from Disney, including Spider-Man and The Mandalorian, plus The Office, Peanuts, Harry Potter, Barbie, BTS, and more. However, there’s more to these than just great looks — as the name implies, you’ll also get strong “military-grade protection, with certified drop resistance of up to 6.6 feet (two meters).

Gviewin Clear Floral Case

Here’s a chic decorated case that happens to be slim, lightweight, and pretty protective. It is made of impact-resistant and flexible TPU, giving it decent protection against pretty much every accident that’s likely to come your way. It also offers a wide selection of different floral designs, which come in a range of tasteful and color schemes that are pretty without being too strong. Owners with wireless chargers will also be pleased to note that these remain compatible with your phone even when the case is on, while the case’s cutouts fit the iPhone very snugly.

Ted Baker GWLADYS Mirror Folio Case

Ted Baker has long offered some delightful floral cases for the iPhone, and its latest entry is the GWLADYS, a mirror flip case that covers the front and rear of the iPhone 14. This offers better all-over coverage than most other cases while still looking classy. Its distinctive should go very well with any Ted Baker handbags you happen to have around, and the built-in mirror helps you quickly check whether your lipstick is neat and tidy or if you have pieces of lunch stuck in your teeth without resorting to activating your selfie camera. This one is only available for the iPhone 14, not the iPhone 14 Pro, although it also fits the iPhone 13.

iPhone 14 / iPhone 13:

Case-Mate Soap Bubble Case

Cases don’t have to be utilitarian, and this eye-catching case proves it. The iridescent finish changes depending on the light and the color of the device inside. The hard-shell back is made from plant-based materials and offers great grip, but if your iPhone should slip from your grasp, there’s no need to worry because this case offers drop protection of up to 10 feet. There’s an anti-scratch coating on the back to keep it looking good, along with MicroPel antimicrobial protection. Case-Mate also offers a lifetime warranty. Accurate cutouts and good button covers complete this tempting package.

Editors' Recommendations

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Jesse has been a technology enthusiast for his entire life — he probably would have been born with an iPhone in his hand had they existed back then — and a fan of all things Apple since he got his first iPod in 2004. He worked as a full-time Senior Editor for iLounge for over ten years, where he wrote about all things iPhone and iPad, including reviewing products and writing tutorials. Jesse later joined Lifewire , where he handled roundups and reviews of computer networking gear, while still keeping a hand in covering the world of Apple devices for iDropNews . Jesse has also authored three editions of iPod & iTunes Portable Genius for Wiley Publishing.

Freelance tech and travel writer living in (somewhat) sunny Scotland. Gamer, tea addict, never without a good book.

There are a lot of phone deals worth shopping right now. Among the best phones you’ll find top names like Apple, Samsung, Google, and Motorola, and you’ll find them among the best phone deals as well. With so many brands and models out there to choose from, we thought we’d round up the best phone deals to shop right now. Reading onward you’ll find some great ways to save on a new phone, as well as a little information on why each phone may be the right one for you. Motorola edge 2023 256GB (Unlocked) -- $350, was $600

The Motorola Edge 2023 is (almost) a Google Pixel 8 killer. It features a unique leather back, which feels great, a gorgeous curved display, and solid day-to-day performance. But most of all, it offers excellent battery life and all in an Android package you're gonna love. The current deal price is one of the best we've seen, making it more accessible than ever.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra (left) and Google Pixel 8 Pro Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

Smartphones tend to have pretty good camera systems these days, whether you're talking about the very latest Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra or the iPhone 14. But even the perfect photo can sometimes need a little additional pizazz. A little extra sparkle can come in the form of a simple color filter, artificially added background blur, or can extend as far as diving into an image's levels and other advanced features. Heck, now that we're in the AI era, it can also include using a tool to transpose yourself into a medieval setting or swapping a face with a friend.

The iPhone 15 Pro Max is the latest smartphone from Apple and boasts a 6.7-inch screen and a durable titanium casing. However, even with its sturdy design, the phone can still suffer from accidental damage such as cracking or shattering. To ensure that your phone stays in good condition and lasts longer, it's important to invest in a protective case.

To help you with your selection, we have put together a list of the 20 best iPhone 15 Pro Max cases. These cases have been carefully selected based on their durability, design, and functionality. Whether you're looking for a slim and stylish case or a heavy-duty one that can withstand extreme conditions, we've got you covered.

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The Best iPhone Case for iPhone 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, and 13 Pro Max

By Nick Guy

The iPhone 13 lineup is here, and accompanying it is a whole new batch of cases to protect and personalize the updated designs—old iPhone 12 cases won’t fit the 2021 models. If you’re getting one of the new phones, here’s a look at our favorite cases of the 70 we’ve tried.

The research

Best basic iphone 13 case: smartish gripmunk with magsafe, best leather iphone 13 case: apple leather case with magsafe, combine your wallet and phone case: smartish wallet slayer vol. 1, a more protective case: smartish gripzilla with magsafe, a clear case to show off your phone: smartish gripmunk nothin’ to hide, a superthin case we like: caudabe veil, an accessory-friendly case: peak design everyday case, why you should trust us, what makes a great iphone case, what to look forward to, the competition.

Smartish Gripmunk with MagSafe for iPhone 13

Best basic case for iphone 13.

Like previous versions of the case we’ve recommended going back to the iPhone 7, the Gripmunk for the iPhone 13 is a great slim, protective, and affordable case—but it’s plain. There’s now a version with MagSafe.

Buying Options

Also available for these iPhones:

• Smartish Gripmunk with MagSafe for iPhone 13 mini
• Smartish Gripmunk with MagSafe for iPhone 13 Pro
• Smartish Gripmunk with MagSafe for iPhone 13 Pro Max

Why it’s great: Smartish’s Gripmunk , through many names and minor tweaks, has been our favorite basic iPhone case for half a decade. It’s no surprise to see this case once again best the competition when it comes to the iPhone 13, especially now that Smartish has improved on the tried-and-true design by adding a MagSafe magnet for a small premium. A non-MagSafe version is available for $5 less, but it’s better to spend the extra Lincoln now rather than having to buy a whole new case if you decide you want to use MagSafe down the line.

The Gripmunk is a one-piece protector made of soft, rubber-like plastic (TPU, or thermoplastic polyurethane) with enough give for you to easily install it on your phone but not so much that it will stretch out, and the case’s corners won’t pop off when you don’t want them to. The back is smooth, while the perimeter has a pebbly texture that, combined with three small grooves on the left and right sides, provides a noticeable amount of grip. We prefer cases that cover the iPhone’s buttons but don’t dampen the clickiness, which the Gripmunk thankfully gets right. And although we can’t vouch for exactly how protective the air pockets in the four corners are, I can personally attest to the case’s ability to withstand more than a few drops.

Non-MagSafe versions of the case are TPU through and through, but the magnetic version houses the metal ring in a sheet of soft microfiber lining, which doesn’t add noticeable bulk. In our testing, the attachment system worked exactly as we expected for both mounting and charging.

Previous-generation iPhones had raised camera bumps, but they were short enough that the thickness of most cases, including the previous-generation Gripmunk, was enough to protect them. It’s a different story with the iPhone 13–series handsets and their huge camera modules. Smartish accounts for this design change with a raised ring all the way around that protects the lenses.

In addition to the superb case designs, Smartish has always kept its prices low, and that’s one of the reasons we like its cases so much. Price isn’t our main consideration, but when comparing everything out there, we’ve rarely seen cases that offer empirically better features at the same or similar prices—oftentimes, case makers are charging even higher prices for less impressive models.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: Though the Gripmunk checks all the boxes, it isn’t the most exciting case in the world. (That’s why it’s our basic pick.) It’s plain, but it’s the best plain case there is. If you like it but find that the solid colors don’t do much for you, consider one of the various prints Smartish offers, or even your own custom design, which is available for a premium through the company’s website.

Available colors: black, blue, clear ( Nothin’ to Hide ), purple, various custom designs

MagSafe compatible: yes

Other great basic cases

Caudabe’s Sheath feels like an alternate take on the Gripmunk, with similar materials and design features. The flexible material—Caudabe refers to it only as a “flexible polymer”—is textured all the way around rather than just along the perimeter, and that certainly adds some grip. The buttons click with little resistance or dampening, and the branding is minimal. Much like the 2021 Gripmunk, the Sheath now includes MagSafe support. The biggest downside is the nearly $40 price tag, which is twice as much as what our pick from Smartish usually costs. But if you like the aesthetics of Caudabe’s case, we don’t think that’s an unreasonable price to pay.

Apple Leather Case with MagSafe for iPhone 13

Best leather case for iphone 13.

High-quality leather, clicky metal buttons, attractive colors, and MagSafe make Apple’s leather case an easy pick.

• Apple Leather Case with MagSafe for iPhone 13 mini
• Apple Leather Case with MagSafe for iPhone 13 Pro
• Apple Leather Case with MagSafe for iPhone 13 Pro Max

Why it’s great: No one has come close to replicating the quality of Apple’s leather iPhone cases since the company started making them in 2015, especially not at the fairly reasonable (for leather) $60 price. So the Apple Leather Case with MagSafe for iPhone 13 is once again our favorite with its combination of high-quality materials, all-around protection, clicky buttons, beautiful colors, and MagSafe compatibility, all of which adds up to make it the ideal leather iPhone case.

Most other leather cases have some sort of plastic or rubber portion, but the Apple version is leather all the way around, with thin sturdy plastic hidden underneath. This design makes it look nicer than the rest and also allows it to be thinner, even as the case rises above the phone’s screen and camera bump for protection. The button covers are metal, and the contrasting material makes them easy to find by feel; they also click exquisitely. And although some early leather cases from Apple left the iPhone’s bottom edge exposed—admittedly, a design that some people prefer when it comes to swiping from the bottom—we’re of the opinion that the full protection the newer versions offer is better because it means you don’t have to worry about damaging exposed aluminum or steel.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: The Apple Leather Case is not a forever case, and it may not even be a one-year-until-you-get-the-next-iPhone case. Its material tends to show wear, subtly at first with what one might describe as a patina. But after a year or so, especially if you tend to drop your iPhone a fair amount or if you have oily hands, you’ll likely notice discoloration and damage down to the plastic core. Apple also specifically warns that using MagSafe connectors can leave an imprint.

Available colors: golden brown, dark cherry, sequoia green, midnight, wisteria

Other great leather cases

Nomad’s Modern Leather Case is the next-best option after Apple’s. Instead of all-leather, it’s a rubber case with a leather panel on the back. We prefer the Apple design, but Nomad’s case is quite nice on its own merits, and it includes MagSafe support.

Smartish Wallet Slayer Vol. 1 for iPhone 13

A wallet case for iphone 13.

If you’re looking to ditch your wallet, this case holds as many as three cards firmly without sacrificing a nice design.

• Smartish Wallet Slayer Vol. 1 for iPhone 13 mini
• Smartish Wallet Slayer Vol. 1 for iPhone 13 Pro
• Smartish Wallet Slayer Vol. 1 for iPhone 13 Pro Max

Why it’s great: I’m looking forward to a wallet-free future where I can have Apple Pay, plane and concert tickets, hotel keys, my vaccine passport, and eventually my ID all available on my phone. But until then, there are still a few cards most people have to carry, and Smartish’s Wallet Slayer Vol. 1 for iPhone 13 is the best way to pack a few. It’s essentially the Gripmunk with a three-card wallet built into the back, which I find to be perfect for my license, a credit card, and my MetroCard.

Just like the Gripmunk, the Wallet Slayer Vol. 1 consists of soft, rubbery TPU all around, with a flat texture on the back and grippier sides, as well as the same air pockets in the corners. The only difference is the raised back, which adds about 0.15 inch and makes the whole case only a little more than half an inch thick. A credit-card-height slot sits along the right, and a smaller hole on the left lets you push the cards out. Hidden underneath is a clever bump that provides enough tension to secure your cards whether you have one, two, or three packed in.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: If you choose the Wallet Slayer Vol. 1, keep in mind that there’s no option to leave the wallet segment behind—even when you’re not carrying cards in the case, you have to deal with its extra thickness. If you’d rather have a more modular setup, consider pairing Apple’s Leather Wallet with MagSafe and a MagSafe case, which is an expensive combination but gives you more options. Speaking of MagSafe, the Wallet Slayer Vol. 1 doesn’t support it.

Available colors: black, blue, purple, various custom designs

MagSafe compatible: no

Other great wallet cases

The Smartish Wallet Slayer Vol. 2 , like everything else in Smartish’s lineup, starts with the Gripmunk at its core. The difference lies in its expandable faux-leather card pocket on the back. We like the hold that the Wallet Slayer Vol. 1 offers a bit better, but both cases are great options.

Bellroy’s Phone Case - 3 Card costs four times what our pick does, and although it’s nicer, it’s not four times nicer. It holds your cards under a leather back panel, accessible through a door that’s held shut by a magnet. We found it easy to get the cards in and out as needed. If you’re willing to spend this much on a wallet case, you’ll likely be happy with it.

Smartish Gripzilla with MagSafe for iPhone 13

A more protective case for iphone 13.

With this case, you get extra thickness for extra protection, but you can still press the buttons and reach the Lightning port.

• Smartish Gripzilla with MagSafe for iPhone 13 mini
• Smartish Gripzilla with MagSafe for iPhone 13 Pro
• Smartish Gripzilla with MagSafe for iPhone 13 Pro Max

Why it’s great: There was a time when you had to pay $50 or more for a case that you could feel assured would take a licking and keep on kicking, with OtterBox leading the charge early on and defining the category. Smartish’s Gripzilla for iPhone 13 costs half that, and although we wouldn’t throw it down the stairs just to prove a point, we wouldn’t be too worried about the phone inside if we were to do that.

Just like the Smartish Wallet Slayer Vol. 1 , the Gripzilla is a variation of the basic Gripmunk case we recommend. It gets its extra protection from a bit of added bulk. While it’s only about 0.02 inch thicker—enough that the raised border around the camera is pretty minimal—the iPhone 13 version of the Gripzilla is about 0.1 inch taller and wider than the base Gripmunk case, with extended corners that offer even greater shock absorption. That difference, combined with the more deeply recessed finger ridges on either side that provide for an especially secure grip, make us confident that thanks to this case you’ll be less likely to drop your phone, and it’ll be in good shape a lot of the time if you do. Oh, and MagSafe support is built right in—unlike on the Gripmunk, that feature comes standard here. For complete protection, be sure to add one of the screen protectors we recommend , which can save the front glass from scratches and cracks.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: Bulk! That’s the trade-off that comes with a more protective case like this. But the difference is really noticeable only when you’re holding a Gripmunk in one hand and a Gripzilla in the other. Otherwise, the Gripzilla, even the iPhone 13 Pro Max variant, doesn’t feel too huge.

Available colors: black, gray, various custom designs

Other great protective cases

As the Smartish Gripzilla shows, you don’t have to spend a huge amount to get great protection. But if you tend to feel secure in a case purchase only if you spend enough to make it seem worth it, you can always consider the OtterBox Symmetry —which is also available in MagSafe , clear , clear with MagSafe , PopSocket , and clear with PopSocket variants—as well as sibling brand LifeProof’s nearly identical See . The core version is a plastic case with rubber around the edges, and in our first-hand experience, we’ve found that it can stand up to a fair number of drops. We like the slightly rough texture on the back and the slim body. Most people should at least try the Gripzilla first, but if that model isn’t for you, check out one of the Symmetry models.

Smartish Gripmunk Nothin’ to Hide with MagSafe for iPhone 13

A clear case for iphone 13.

This is a clear version of the basic case we like. But we’ve never found a clear case that doesn’t discolor to a noticeable degree after six to 12 months.

• Smartish Gripmunk Nothin’ to Hide with MagSafe for iPhone 13 mini
• Smartish Gripmunk Nothin’ to Hide with MagSafe for iPhone 13 Pro
• Smartish Gripmunk Nothin’ to Hide with MagSafe for iPhone 13 Pro Max

Why it’s great: The Nothin’ to Hide is a variant of our favorite basic case . It has the same design, the same dimensions—the same pretty much everything. The two differences are that it’s clear (obviously) and that the back is a hard plastic rather than the more rubber-like TPU. Although it’s reflective, it doesn’t have the rainbow-y prismatic distortion we tend to associate with cheaper transparent cases. And if you want a version without MagSafe , that’s available, too.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: Just as leather cases fall apart, transparent cases turn yellow. Despite any number of claims of “anti-yellowing technology” we’ve seen over the years, we’ve never tested a clear case that hasn’t become a little grimy looking over a few months. The effect is generally pretty gradual, and you may not notice the change for a while, or until you put your case next to a newer clear protector. Past versions of the Nothin’ to Hide version of the Gripmunk have gone yellow on us, so we expect this one to do so, as well.

Available colors: clear

Other great clear cases

Spigen makes excellent clear cases that are worth considering if, for any reason, you don’t like the Smartish Gripmunk. The Spigen Ultra Hybrid and Spigen Ultra Hybrid Mag are the closest in look and feel to the clear Gripmunk, with similar hard-plastic backs and TPU borders. The big difference is that these cases are totally clear and flat, without the grippy texture and finger ridges that the Gripmunk offers. If you prefer that entirely clear look and are willing to give up a bit of grip, we recommend going with one of these cases (or the kickstand-equipped Spigen Ultra Hybrid S , if you like it).

The Spigen Liquid Crystal has been a favorite clear case at Wirecutter for years, and the iPhone 13 edition is as great as always. It’s a single piece of totally clear TPU that fits perfectly, adds minimal bulk, and can survive some drops. The back is lined with a series of small dots that prevent the water-splotch look sometimes seen on cheaper clear cases. The only thing holding it back from being our top clear-case pick once again is its lack of a MagSafe option. If you don’t want or need MagSafe, though, the Liquid Crystal is absolutely worth its low price.

Caudabe Veil iPhone 13

A thin case for iphone 13.

The Veil is almost identical to every other thin case but is less expensive.

• Caudabe Veil for iPhone 13 mini
• Caudabe Veil for iPhone 13 Pro
• Caudabe Veil for iPhone 13 Pro Max

Why it’s great: Ultrathin cases aren’t for everybody, and if you expect anything more than scratch protection, they shouldn’t be your first choice. But if you do insist on the thinnest case you can slap on your phone, we recommend Caudabe’s Veil . It’s nearly identical to the other thin cases we’ve tested, but it costs at least $10 less.

All the cases in this category are essentially the same superthin piece of plastic molded to wrap around the phone while adding next to no bulk. The Veil, and the rest, don’t have any sort of soft materials or air pockets for absorbing shocks, or button coverage. They’re better suited for adding some grip and preventing scratches on the iPhone’s rear glass than preventing breaks.

The biggest difference between the Veil and its closest competitors, Totallee’s Super Thin Case and Peel’s Super Thin Case , is the price. The Veil sells for $10 to $15 less than either of those models, though they both come in more colors, which may be important to you if you’re looking to personalize your case. Caudabe’s case also has a tiny logo on the back, while the other two don’t show any branding.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: Like every other superthin case, the Veil won’t do much to prevent your phone from breaking if you drop it. Choose it only if you’re comfortable with that compromise. The color options are also more limited than we’d like. If you prefer this style but want a different color, check out the competitors we mention above.

Available colors : black, frost

MagSafe compatible: not fully

Peak Design Everyday Case for iPhone

An accessory-friendly case for iphone 13.

The Peak Design case easily attaches to a wide range of mounts, including those for your bike and car, through a combination of a locking clip and MagSafe-compatible magnets.

• Peak Design Everyday Case for iPhone 13 mini
• Peak Design Everyday Case for iPhone 13 Pro
• Peak Design Everyday Case for iPhone 13 Pro Max

Why it’s great: Peak Design’s Everyday Case is a top option whether you know you want to swap accessories on the fly or you think you might, or even if you’re not concerned about accessories at all. It’s a great case in its own right that happens to have special features that set it apart.

The Everyday Case’s polycarbonate body is covered in a dark gray nylon both inside and out, which is a handsome design. Its TPU border has small ridges along the inner edge that should help absorb damage from drops. Packed into the rear panel are the features that differentiate this case from the rest: There’s a hidden MagSafe-compatible magnet that works as expected with all the MagSafe accessories we tested. The panel also has an 0.8-inch square cutout, recessed just 0.7 inch into the case, that serves as a mounting point, securely gripping accessories that clip in place. Despite this dual-attachment setup, the Everyday Case isn’t noticeably thicker than even our basic case pick.

Peak sells a number of accessories that take advantage of both the clip system and the MagSafe magnets, including mounts for your car , motorcycle , and bike , as well as a tripod mounting system and wallet . The connection is strong enough that we have zero concerns about anything unintentionally falling out of place.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: We don’t say this often, but there aren’t any flaws. This is a great case that performs well in every way we evaluate cases. If you don’t think you’ll take advantage of the modular accessory system, it may not be worth the higher price. But it’s not too expensive to pick up even if you’re only a “maybe” on the accessories; it stands on its own as a strong option.

Available colors: charcoal

Other great accessory-friendly cases

Quad Lock’s Case was our pick in this category since at least the iPhone 7, and I’ve personally tested and liked every version of it since 2013’s iPhone 5. Not a lot has changed in that time, and in this instance, that’s a good thing. The Quad Lock Case is primarily smooth, black, flexible plastic, similar to the back of the Smartish Gripmunk. Its special feature is the 1.3-inch-diameter, 0.13-inch-deep divot in the back, which you use to connect the case to an ecosystem of mounts and accessories that twist and lock into place. The lineup includes everything from a handlebar mount to a tripod adapter to a belt clip, all of which attach securely with a simple quarter-turn. It doesn’t support MagSafe.

I’ve been Wirecutter’s case reviewer since 2014, and in my career as an accessories writer, I’ve reviewed around 2,000 iPhone cases. That number spans multiple generations of Apple devices, including every iPhone since the iPhone 4 and every iPad. I’ve probably handled more iPhone cases than almost anyone on the planet, so I have a particularly experienced perspective and depth of knowledge when it comes to these items.

When choosing the best iPhone cases, we consider a huge number of factors for such a seemingly simple product, from objective measures such as physical dimensions and level of protection to subjective assessments of look and feel.

Although we have been testing cases for many years and have had some consistent picks across multiple iPhone generations, no case automatically becomes a pick just because we’ve made past versions of it a pick. With the iPhone 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, and 13 Pro Max in hand, we put each new case on the phones to see how well it fit and functioned.

While we have a variety of recommendations across various styles, we consider all of the following criteria when making our picks:

• Drop protection: We seek out cases that can adequately protect a phone without adding unnecessary embellishments or too much bulk. We don’t conduct drop tests, but we do look for cases that are obviously capable of withstanding some impact. (Even a heavy-duty case can’t guarantee that your phone will survive every scenario intact—for example, a direct hit to the screen will still do damage.) The obvious exception here is superthin cases, which purposely compromise some drop protection in favor of a thinner profile.
• Full coverage: As a general rule, the more of the phone that a case protects, the better; we prefer cases that protect everything but the phone’s screen. The best cases provide button protection with tactility that mimics—or in some instances even enhances—the way the buttons feel on a bare iPhone. We also like cases that don’t leave the top or bottom edge of the phone exposed, though such exposure isn’t necessarily a dealbreaker. On the other hand, we don’t consider cases with a circular opening to expose the Apple logo on the back of the phone because they offer less overall protection and provide no real benefit.
• Raised front lip and camera ring: As Apple’s case guidelines (PDF) explain, “Exposed glass on the device shall not come within 0.85 mm of a flat surface, such as a table or floor, in any orientation when the case is attached.” A lip around the edges of the phone’s display helps prevent cracked screens—one of the biggest worries with any smartphone—but it also helps to keep the screen from getting scratched if you place the phone screen-down. We use a 0.85-millimeter feeler gauge, per Apple’s guidelines, to test each case. Additionally, the iPhone 13–series devices have especially pronounced camera bumps, and the case material needs to rise taller than them to protect them.
• MagSafe: Apple’s MagSafe system is a bit complicated, as it encompasses magnetic wireless chargers and accessories, as well as cases with a magnetic ring built in to support them. A case without the magnetic ring may still support charging with a MagSafe charger, as long as it’s thin enough, but likely won’t work with a car mount or wallet. Although a case’s lack of MagSafe support isn’t an absolute dealbreaker, we’re seeing enough great cases with MagSafe at similar prices to those without that we generally prefer them.
• No interference with wireless signals or other functionality: A case shouldn’t reduce performance with any wireless signals—Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular, NFC (near-field communication, which is necessary to use Apple Pay), or Qi wireless charging. In our tests, we verify that each of these features works with the case on. Although wallet cases may properly support wireless charging, you shouldn’t expect them to, and if you need wireless charging, we recommend that you look at a folio instead. Additionally, the case shouldn’t prevent you from using any gestures. That’s an especially important consideration with the iPhone 13 series, which relies on an upward swipe from the bottom edge of the screen as a primary interaction.
• Broad aesthetic appeal: Although you can find a case suitable for any aesthetic preference, we look for cases that have simple, even elegant designs—cases that are likely to appeal to most people—rather than models that adhere to specific aesthetic choices.

We’re going to be testing many more cases, from many more companies, in the coming weeks and months.

Apple’s Silicone Case with MagSafe costs more than twice as much as the Smartish Gripmunk, and we’ve found past versions of the case to be dust and lint magnets. The colors are great, though.

The early version of ESR’s Cloud Soft Case with HaloLock (the company’s name for its MagSafe-compatible products) felt just a bit too small on our iPhone 13 Pro, and the corners didn’t quite fit properly.

Incipio’s Organicore is made of a compostable material, and we like the case well enough. Its ridged edges are easy to hold, and the buttons click well. We think it’s expensive for a basic case, but if you’re concerned about your environmental impact, it’s worth a look. Incipio also has a clear version , though the edges are solid-colored.

Nomad, known mostly for its leather cases, now offers a Sport Case that’s quite nice if you’re okay with a glossy finish. The MagSafe-compatible case has a channel along its sides that helps enhance your grip, as well as the ability to send a “digital business card” over NFC.

Spigen’s Thin Fit is primarily hard plastic, with a TPU border to provide some flexibility for installation and removal. The matte back shows grease from fingers, and there’s no MagSafe support, but it otherwise works well.

The Spigen Mag Armor costs the same as the MagSafe version of Smartish’s Gripmunk, but it comes only in black and feels somewhat slicker.

Spigen’s Liquid Air is an extremely basic TPU case without any distinguishing features that make it worth your money. There’s nothing wrong about what it does deliver on, but that list of accomplishments is too short to deserve credit.

LifeProof’s Wake is primarily made of recycled plastic from the ocean, which is cool. But the case itself doesn’t justify its price tag, as that plastic is molded into a shell with minimal shock absorption and an exposed bottom edge. We like the way the wave pattern on the back looks and feels, but even combined with the environmental claims, that’s not enough to make this one worth recommending.

Most of Casetify’s cases feature the brand’s name surrounding the camera, a design choice we’ve always found off-putting. The Ultra Compostable Case is more subtle about it, at least, with the logo pressed into the plant-based material rather than embossed in a contrasting color. We think the price tag is too high compared with some of our favorite cases, but this case is worth considering for the particularly eco-minded.

Moment’s Case is rather expensive for this category, but it does offer an attractive design and MagSafe support. It’s compatible with Moment’s mounts , as well as with the company’s lenses when paired with a $5 lens mount .

Leather case

Mujjo’s Full Leather Case is a less expensive, but not as nice, take on the Apple Leather Case. Instead of offering metal button covers, it has them molded into the leather. There’s no MagSafe support, and if you look closely you’ll notice that the fit and finish is just a bit less refined.

Bellroy’s Leather iPhone Case is nearly as expensive as Apple’s but less refined. The seam between the leather and the TPU on our review unit had some rough edges and looked as if the materials would start to separate with normal use.

ESR’s Metro Leather Case with HaloLock is the closest we’ve found to a clone of the Apple Leather Case. Available in black or brown, it has similar metal button covers, plus a protective metal ring around the camera. The pebbly leather doesn’t feel quite as nice as the material Apple uses and we wish there were more colors, but otherwise, it’s a good choice, especially if you’re on a more limited budget.

Wallet case

Spigen’s Slim Armor CS lives up to its name with a pretty slim feel. It houses credit cards under a sliding plastic door on its back, but unlike Smartish’s wallet cases, it can hold only two. We also found it difficult to get the cards out because you need to lift them from underneath, which we found particularly tough with freshly trimmed fingernails.

Vena’s Legacy and vCommute both combine plastic, rubber, and faux-leather elements into thick wallet cases that double as stands. They’re clever, and we appreciate the originality in design, but we don’t think either three-card case aesthetically appeals to a broad swath of people.

Mujjo’s Full Leather Wallet Case , including the raised button protectors, is entirely leather, and the card pocket stitched onto the back can fit two cards comfortably. If you stuff three cards in there, getting them out will be tough, at least at first. But because this case is leather, you can break in the wallet portion over time.

Bluebonnet’s iPhone Wallet Card Holder Case is a handsome but expensive leather wallet with two slots that can hold a total of four cards. It also has a small piece of blue elastic running halfway up the phone’s height that you can slip your fingers under for grip. We find this one to be a little too pricey, but a solid option if you like the design.

OtterBox’s Strada and Nomad’s Modern Leather Folio are similar folio-style wallet cases for those that prefer the style, with flip-open lids fused to their left sides. Of the two, we prefer the OtterBox’s look and feel more thanks to the quality of the leather and the magnets that hold the lid shut when closed or flat against the phone’s back when opened, but it only holds two cards and there’s no MagSafe support. Nomad’s case, on the other hand, can fit three cards plus cash, and does support MagSafe. If you like folios, choose whichever model has the features that are more important to you.

More protective case

Catalyst’s Vibe Case is a MagSafe-compatible TPU case with good grip thanks to its knurled edges and a carbon-fiber pattern on the back. Its most notable features are a dial over the mute switch and redirected audio, which the company claims makes your music 30% louder. We don’t think the Vibe is worth $50, but it’s a neat-looking case. It’s also available as the non-MagSafe Influence Case .

Incipio’s Duo two-piece case is a bit harder to install than one-piecers but doesn’t offer any material benefit.

The Incipio Grip has uncomfortably hard Y-shaped protrusions all along its left and right sides. Although they may help with grip, they just don’t feel good.

We like the look of Incipio’s Optum , but $50 is simply too much to pay for a case without MagSafe unless you love the design.

Pelican’s Protector felt like a pretty generic plastic case with little to recommend it other than its branding.

We got so frustrated taking apart the two-piece Survivor All-Terrain Earth that we gave up during the equally annoying step of trying to put it back together.

Survivor’s Endurance and the company’s similar but MagSafe-less Strong both have a rather attractive design and feel like they’d survive a drop or two. But they each offer very little separation between the volume buttons, which makes it nearly impossible to tell the buttons apart by touch. It’s a small thing, but when you’re paying that much for a case, the details should be done right.

The rear panel on SwitchEasy’s Aero+ felt like a thin sheet of plastic that could easily puncture or scratch.

SwitchEasy’s Alos is a clear case that has an already weathered look. We found its ridges (where its back corners would otherwise be) uncomfortable.

We disregarded Spigen’s Tough Armor (also available with MagSafe as the Tough Armor Mag ) and Rugged Armor out of hand because of their ugly and impractical holes that show the Apple logo through the back of the case.

The expensive LifeProof Next (also available in a MagSafe version for a $10 premium) claims to offer drop, dirt, and snow protection, without any specifics to back up those promises. The two-piece design is stuck in a time when iPhones were less protected from the elements out of the box, and the best you could do to prevent damage from water and drops was to use this kind of difficult-to-install, bulky case. We just can’t see a situation in which this case makes much more sense than one of the $20 to $25 cases we recommend above, or, moving in the other direction, AppleCare+ for about twice the cost of the case.

Zagg’s Gear4 Brooklyn Snap combines faux leather and recycled plastic, and it’s MagSafe-compatible. The case felt noticeably wider than many we tested, and we found that the fit around the front exposed the iPhone’s frame in an ugly, uneven way that was unbecoming of an expensive case. The Denali Snap separates into a rubber frame and a plastic backplate, which feels like a dated design, and the Vancouver Snap is wide with unnecessary air vents along the back. Both are fine options if you like the specific look they offer.

Speck’s Presidio2 Pro relies on air cushions around the edges, rather than previous editions’ rubber-and-plastic layering, to help protect against drops. The matte finish is a little smoother than we’d prefer, and it may show stains more readily than other materials or textures. We think the Presidio2 Pro is a fine case, especially if you choose the MagSafe version, but it’s very hard to justify paying this case’s full retail price when you can pay less than half that for similar protection from Smartish’s Gripzilla. If you dig the general design, we recommend choosing the Presidio2 Grip with MagSafe instead, since it adds extra grip and MagSafe support.

If you’re the kind of person who wants an OtterBox Defender or its antimicrobial-laden sibling, the Defender Pro , we probably can’t convince you otherwise, nor should we. The classic case—with its plastic frame, rubber exterior, and, yep, belt clip—feels like it’ll hold up at a construction site or as a hockey puck. But if you’re just commuting to work, walking the dog, or scrolling TikTok on the couch, it’s overkill in terms of size, complexity, and price. And there’s no MagSafe option.

OtterBox’s Commuter is the company’s least expensive case, and we didn’t find it particularly impressive. The two-piece design, with a rubber inner layer and a plastic frame that snaps around it, is more fussy to install than we’d like, and it makes the phone bulky.

On the other end of the price spectrum, the Defender Pro XT with MagSafe is OtterBox’s most expensive case—yet it suffers from some of the same problems. We found the installation process to be especially tough, and the case itself to be quite large. We like that it has MagSafe support, but we also think you’re better off with one of the company’s more middle-of-the-road options if you like the OtterBox look and feel.

The shape of the Moshi Arx makes it feel thick, even if it’s not much larger than most of the cases we tested. Its distinctive carbon-fiber-style design may appeal to some, but that’s the main reason to choose it over any of the other models here.

ESR’s Classic Hybrid Case with HaloLock is totally clear all the way around and has protective air pockets in its corners. But its MagSafe system doesn’t have the alignment line below the circle, so it won’t work as well with some accessories.

The extended corners on ESR’s Air Armor with HaloLock seemed like overkill to us, but if you want the feeling of extra security, we otherwise like it as much as the company’s Classic Hybrid.

Incipio’s Slim is fairly expensive, its buttons are too flush with the rest of the case, and we heard a rattling when using it, which suggested that the sizing was just a bit off.

Survivor’s Clear is a pretty good, inexpensive option if you don’t need or want MagSafe, but as with the other models in the Survivor case family, we wish it offered a more tactile separation between the volume up and down buttons.

SwitchEasy’s MagCrush is actually a pretty good option if you want a transparent case with clear edges, but although it costs more than the ESR Classic Hybrid, it doesn’t offer any obvious benefits over that model.

The clear Totallee Super Thin Case was rather tacky to the touch and showed a lot of prismatic distortion. We don’t think it’s worth $40.

We don’t like that the lip on the Zagg Gear4 Crystal Palace Snap (also available without MagSafe ) is more raised at the top and bottom and dips below the 1 mm height threshold along the sides. It’s a small matter, for sure, but when a case costs this much, we expect the details to be right.

Speck’s clear case comes in several variations, namely the Presidio Perfect-Clear , Presidio Perfect-Clear Compatible with MagSafe , Presidio Perfect-Clear with Grips , and Presidio Perfect-Clear with Grips Compatible with MagSafe . If you’re considering any of them, we’d recommend the Grip versions. The models without are totally acceptable but expensive for what they are, while the plastic grips—raised along the edges and inverted on the back—provide a different look and feel than on any other clear case.

Moshi’s Arx Clear is expensive for a clear case, and we find the one long continuous button protector inferior to split coverage; it’s too easy to hit in the middle and accidentally do the opposite of what you’re trying for.

Meet your guide

Nick Guy is a former senior staff writer covering Apple and accessories at Wirecutter. He has been reviewing iPhones, iPads, and related tech since 2011—and stopped counting after he tested his 1,000th case. It’s impossible for him not to mentally catalog any case he sees. He once had the bright idea to build and burn down a room to test fireproof safes.

Further reading

Which iPhone Should I Get?

by Roderick Scott

USB-C, and better screens and cameras, make the iPhone 15 easy to recommend, but iPhone 14 owners don’t need to upgrade.

The Best Smartphones

by Ryan Whitwam and Roderick Scott

Whether you prefer iPhones or Android, we have smartphone recommendations for every budget.

The Best Accessories for Your iPhone and iPad

by Dan Frakes, Nick Guy, and Wirecutter Staff

We’ve spent hundreds of hours over the past few years testing hundreds of iPhone and iPad accessories to find the best ones.

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Switching from iPhone to Android is a big change, but it doesn’t have to be a hard one.

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The 17 Best iPhone Cases that Protect Your Device and Complement Your Style

From brands like Otterbox, Burga, Speck, Prada, and more.

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What to Keep in Mind

Your questions, answered, why shop with us.

InStyle / Reese Herrington

iPhone cases tow the line between armor and accessory. After investing a chunk of change in your iPhone, making sure it is properly protected should be your first priority, especially if you’re prone to slips and spills — no one wants to sport a cracked phone. And today, you can even find a case that’s completely waterproof, moonlights as a wallet, too, or can act as a purse complete with a crossbody strap.

In order to narrow down the absolute best choices, we broke this piece down based on priority and spoke to experts for their top tips for buying new ones and which they personally love for their phones. No matter if you want one that’s more function over form or a definite fashion accessory, we found the best cases for everyone.

Best Overall

Otterbox iphone 14 symmetry series case.

What We Love: This chic and slim case offers incredible protection without the traditional bulky design.

What We Don’t Love: Reviewers say that the color options are brighter in person than they are online.

Otterbox is almost synonymous with protection. Their heavy-duty cases are rigorously tested to ensure your devices are safe in their hands. This one was tested to withstand over 70 drops from four feet high but with a much sleeker design than their signature Defender series. The raised edges along the screen add another layer of durability, while the smooth exterior complete with a rubber bumper makes it more comfortable to hold — it has just enough grip without feeling sticky.

Content creator, Audree López relies on her phone for her job, which is why she uses Otterbox. With over 24 colors and prints available, she loves how this case doesn’t skimp on protection or style. “Otterboxes are known for their protection and they do really live up to their reputation,” she says, “Luckily, they have added some cute designs and colors beyond the original neutral palette.”

Color: 24 | MagSafe: Yes | Waterproof: No | iPhone Sizes: 14, 13

Best Budget

Speck clear iphone 14 & iphone 13 case.

What We Love: This wallet-friendly case offers the protection benefits of a much more expensive product without the hefty price tag.

What We Don’t Love: This case isn’t available in that many sizes.

IPhone cases are a dime a dozen. Almost every convenience store will have an inexpensive option to house your cell. However, finding an inexpensive yet effective case is much more difficult. Enter Speck. While their popular Presidio style rivals the price of our top pick, many of their other lines, including the Gemshell, are priced under $20. Don’t let the accessible price point fool you, this case is slim yet sturdy. Plus, Speck was one of the first iPhone case brands to implement microban technology on their products. This greatly reduces the amount of bacteria that can grow on the case which is a must when your phone goes everywhere with you. The raised edges around the camera protect the lenses from cracking.

As the cherry on top, this translucent case won’t yellow even after living at the bottom of your handbag for months.

Color: 6 | MagSafe: Yes | Waterproof: No | iPhone Sizes: 14, 13

Best Splurge

Prada black saffiano leather cover iphone 14 pro.

What We Love: The bold yet simple design is perfect for mirror selfies.

What We Don’t Love: It has a limited size range.

We will admit: $500 for a phone case is pretty steep, but if you have the funds, we see this as a worthy investment. Logomania isn’t going anywhere, and this is a classy way to participate. Plus, it is far cheaper than investing in a brand-new bag. If you are prone to the occasional mirror selfie, this case definitely takes your pics to the next level. But it is only available for the iPhone 13 and 14 at this time, so only those with updated tech will be able to purchase.

Color: 2 | MagSafe: No | Waterproof: No | iPhone Sizes: 14, 13

Best For Protection

Otterbox defender series xt.

What We Love: It lays nicely over the buttons on your phone, and it shields them from scuffs and snags.

What We Don’t Love: The silhouette is much bulkier than other models on the market.

When you think of Otterbox, this is the case that comes to mind. It is a little larger than average phone cases — and for good reason. Made from mixed materials like recycled plastic and rubber, this case, which albeit a bit bulkier than most cases, absorbs shock from drops instead of letting them penetrate your device. It’s most popular amongst people who are rough on their phones like moms and adventurers.

The installation is a little different from other cases out there. If you need a little more help, they link a helpful tutorial on their site.

Color: 5 | MagSafe: Yes | Waterproof: No | iPhone Sizes: All

Best With Wallet

Smartish wallet slayer vol. 1.

What We Love: This wallet phone case combo saves pocket space.

What We Don’t Love: This particular case is not MagSafe compatible.

If you prefer to keep your phone in your pocket, storing both your wallet and cell can be cramped. The Smartish Wallet case saves you both room and sanity. Designed with air pockets around each corner of the device, they function like miniature airbags for your phone. The wallet on the back side can hold up to three cards along with some cash, To accommodate this, the design is a little bulkier than typical, and it is not MagSafe, but it is still more convenient than carrying two. On top of everything, this case rings up for under $30.

Color: 6 | MagSafe: No | Waterproof: No | iPhone Sizes: All

Best With Cardholder

Bellroy phone case - 3 card.

 Courtesy of Bellroy

What We Love: The sleek-looking case houses cards without extra bulkiness.

What We Don’t Love: This case can only hold three cards.

If you prefer a classic look, look no further. Not only could this Bellroy pass as a much more expensive card holder, but it also contains up to three cards without added bulk. The closure is magnetic so it snaps on and off with ease. Even if you do not like the look, feel, or fit, the brand offers a three-year warranty, so you can easily replace it.

Spigen Liquid Crystal iPhone 14 Case

What We Love: This case feels like nothing is on your phone.

What We Don’t Love: Some reviewers report that the case goes slightly yellow over time.

Celebrities love a clear phone case - even Victoria Beckham is among them. It is easy to see why. Clear cases show off the natural beauty of an iPhone, but oftentimes they are not sturdy enough to support a few drops. This one from Spigen is the exception. The slight ridge around the edge of the case is a subtle way to show off your shade of iPhone. Some reviewers noted that after a while they noticed some yellowing around the edges. This is tough to avoid when using clear cases, but it is distracting nonetheless.

Color: 3 | MagSafe: Yes | Waterproof: No | iPhone Sizes: 12, 13, 14

Best MagSafe

Casetify bounce case the pickle case.

What We Love: This case offers unlimited print options, so you can find something that fits your personal style.

What We Don’t Love: It is a little on the pricey side.

This came recommended to us by Bella Gerard, fashion editor and content creator, who calls them her "go-to" because you can personalize them. The website boasts hundreds of prints and constantly adds more, so you can always find one that suits your style. However, if nothing catches your eye, Gerard notes that you can create your own. Simply choose a print you love and upload it to the site to create your own personal creation. López echoes her statement and includes the lightweight design in her list of praise.

While Casetify does not have the same protective reputation as other brands, their latest style, the bounce case, secures the corners of the phone with an extra set of bumpers. It has 20-foot drop protection and a raised bezel to block any screen shattering.

Beyond the amazing array of colors and the bumper-secured corners (you can even customize the outer border), almost all Casetify cases are MagSafe compatible, meaning that you can use your wireless charging devices while donning the protective case. Overall, we think it's worth the investment, but we know it is a steep price for a case.

Color: N/A | MagSafe: Yes | Waterproof: No | iPhone Sizes: All

Best Leather

Apple iphone 14 pro leather case with magsafe.

What We Love: This case is the perfect base for supplemental accessories.

What We Don’t Love: This is not the most protective case option.

Calling all minimalists, this slim leather case is the next addition to your case wardrobe. It is smooth, slight, and it comes in muted neutral colors like forest green, umber, and ink. Since the product is designed by Apple for Apple, it seamlessly snaps over your device and works with all the charging accessories you can think of: MagSafe compatible, battery pack, and wallet pouch. Snap-on the Leather Wallet attachment to the back of the phone case for added functionality. We even recommend adding one in a different color for a cool color contrast.

Color: 5 | MagSafe: Yes | Waterproof: No | iPhone Sizes: 14,13,12,11, SE

Best Monogram

Baublebar block it out iphone case.

Courtesy of BaubleBar

What We Love: The raised initials or monogram make this design stand out.

What We Don’t Love: Many of their popular styles take three weeks to ship.

The monogram case trend isn’t going anywhere, and it is never too late to hop on the bandwagon. López, a self-proclaimed maximalist, named this as one of her favorite cases ever. In fact, she’s bought at least four over the past few years. “I always receive compliments on this case,” she says. Plus it is super handy during group hangs. “You always know which phone is yours immediately,” she says. Lopez isn’t the only one. Other major names like Shay Mitchell, Hilary Duff, and Nina Dobrev, have sported this case out and about.

If you aren’t a fan of this particular font, no worries. Baublebar offers a range of styles and shades so you can find one that works for you. However, be prepared to wait a while for yours to arrive. Many of the popular styles take three weeks or more to arrive.

Color: 5 | MagSafe: Yes | Waterproof: No | iPhone Sizes: 11 to 14 Pro Max

Best with Strap

Bandolier emma crossbody phone case and wallet.

What We Love: The long leather strap disguises your phone as a mini handbag.

What We Don’t Love: The strap is a bit difficult to adjust.

Another one of Lopez’s faves, who says it's "great for travel, festivals concerts, a night out or a life as a busy mom,” this case is a must for the gal on the go. Say goodbye to fishing for your cell in your bottomless handbag. This innovative design from Bandolier holds your phone like a crossbody. The leather strap disguises your phone as a much more elevated accessory and keeps it at your side for easy access. The snap-shut card holder on the back keeps your most important cards on your person. Some shoppers, though, wish that the strap could be adjusted with just one hand — you'll probably have to take it off to change the length, but we think that's an easy thing to look past.

Color: 3 | MagSafe: Yes | Waterproof: No | iPhone Sizes: 14,13

Best Stylish

Burga ivy league case.

What We Love: Burga pays attention to every last detail. From the microfiber interior to the stain-proof prints, this case is always camera ready.

What We Don’t Love: Some reviewers note that it is difficult to remove.

If you are struggling to find an iPhone case that feels fun yet grown up, look no further. This celeb-endorsed brand - both Taylor Swift and Lucy Hale are fans - boasts over 200 designs all of which are specially designed to last through cluttered handbags and months of palming. The microfiber interior won’t scratch the sides of your device, and the sides are dotted for a more secure grip. If that were not enough, all of their cases come with a 12-month warranty, so you can purchase with peace of mind. Best of all, for every two cases you buy, Burga will throw in another two for free. Happy shopping!

Color: 6 | MagSafe: Yes | Waterproof: No | iPhone Sizes: All

Caudabe Veil Case for iPhone 12

What We Love: The barely-there exterior makes your iPhone feel as close to caseless as possible.

What We Don’t Love: This case is not super protective.

IPhone cases, especially the protective ones, add bulk to your phone. The Caudabe Veil, on the other hand, aims to stay as true to the natural shape of your iPhone as possible. The super slim sides hug the borders of your phone like Carrie Bradshaw’s naked dress, and the supple material feels instantly at home in your palm.

But be warned, its slim silhouette sacrifices some on the protection front. It will prevent scratches and scuffs, but this is not the case for you if you are prone to major falls.

Color: 2 | MagSafe: Yes | Waterproof: No | iPhone Sizes: 14,13,12

Best Customizable

Mark and graham personalized iphone case.

Mark & Graham

What We Love: The website shows you exactly what your monogram will look like on the print and color scheme of your choosing.

What We Don’t Love: If your aesthetic is more minimal, this is not the case for you.

Mark and Graham goes hand in hand with personalization. This preppy and polished phone case is no exception. Available in over 20 prints and a whopping 53 font colors, this brand spoils you for choice. The website allows you to play around with words or your initials, so you can see exactly how your design will look before it is made.

Can’t find one that suits you? Their Custom Striped case offers even more options. But make sure you have your details correct. Monogrammed items are not eligible for returns.

Color: 22 | MagSafe: No | Waterproof: No | iPhone Sizes:  11 to 14 Pro Max

Best on Amazon

Raptic shield iphone 14 pro max case.

What We Love: for the price point, this case offers superior protection.

What We Don’t Love: The side button can be a bit stiff, so you have to press extra hard when using.

Finding a protective iPhone case under $50 is a near-impossible task. The Raptic Shield offers the best of both worlds. The backside is clear for a more minimal look while the rubberized borders absorb shock and act as bumpers from the usual suspects. Plus, the aluminum frame is military drop tested from six feet. With over 500 five-star reviews on Amazon, this beloved case delivers top-tier protection for a reasonable price.

Some reviewers have complained about the stiffness of the side buttons, so they may require extra pressure to use.

Color: 3 | MagSafe: Yes | Waterproof: No | iPhone Sizes: 13 to 14 Pro Max

Best Waterproof

Catalyst waterproof total protection case.

What We Love: The built-in screen protector lays flat against your iPhone screen, so you can freely text and use your apps.

What We Don’t Love: This case doesn’t offer much aesthetically.

It may not be the most glamorous case on this list, but it gets the job done. Whether you work near water or are a little clumsy with your phone, this case seals in your device and keeps liquids out. It is even IP68 rated which means it should be able to keep liquid out even when submerged in 33 feet of water. Despite the heavy-duty materials, your phone won’t lose any functionality when wearing this suit of armor. Reviewers report that their cameras, apps, and sound stayed up to par while using the case, too.

It is on the pricier side, but Catalyst is so confident in their product, they offer a one-year warranty on the case.

Color: 1 | MagSafe: Yes | Waterproof: Yes | iPhone Sizes: 14 to 14 Pro Max

Best Designer

Bottega veneta iphone case.

Bottega Veneta

What We Love: This ultra-chic case mimics the famous Bottega Veneta cassette bag.

What We Don’t Love: This case is not the most protective on this list.

Designer cases are a way to add a little luxury to your most beloved accessory: your phone. For a fraction of the price of a handbag, you can cover your phone in your favorite designer. If logos aren’t your thing, this subtle and stylish rubber option from Bottega is recognizable without going overboard. It looks like an itty bitty version of their signature Cassette bag. The flexible material fits snugly around all the corners and is super easy to change out. Out of all the options on this list, this is not the most protective, even for the price, so we recommend picking something else if you're relatively clumsy.

Color: 8 | MagSafe: No | Waterproof: No | iPhone Sizes: 13 to 14 Pro Max

IPhone cases come in a variety of different materials. “The best material balances durability, protection performance, offers a range of colors, accepts different graphic applications, and has the right feel in the user’s hands,” says Krajec.

Hard Plastic: Typically phone cases are made from two types of plastics: thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and polycarbonate (PC). PC is harder and more rigid, and TPU is more flexible.

Silicone: Silicone is more flexible and gives a better grip. Mostly, silicone is mixed with other materials like plastic to create a case.

Rubber: Rubber cases offer a snug fit and are used to absorb shocks from falls. Like silicone, this is often used as a supplement.

Leather: Leather might be the least protective of the bunch, but it tends to be more expensive and look the most luxe.

When you are deciding on a phone case, you are also deciding between protection and style. Protective cases are usually thicker and made from a blend of materials listed above. They can also be on the more expensive side. To make sure you are getting your money’s worth, check out what type of testing the brand has done on their cases. Most brands conduct their own drop tests and use Military Standard, or MIL-STD, as the process. In order to pass this, it requires an item to be dropped 26 times from four feet.

When it comes to the iPhone,  MagSafe means there is a set of magnets inside the device that enables chargers and accessories to attach magnetically, explains Krajec. Cases labeled MagSafe mean that they can be worn while using a wireless charging device.

What type of iPhone is most protective?

The iPhone 12 was the first model Apple introduced Ceramic Shield on the phone screen. This helped prevent shattered screens even after a couple of drops. Since then, they’ve implemented it in their forthcoming iterations. Regardless, iPhones are made from fragile materials like glass, so they need some assistance staying protected.

How often should you buy a new iPhone case?

“OtterBox cases are built to last, so we hope you can have it as long as you have your device,” says Krajec, “That said, we do recommend replacing your case if you had a big drop or can see any structural damage on the case. It’s like a bike helmet – it won’t protect as intended if there’s been damage.” Ultimately, there is no one size fits all answer. It depends on the case and the personal preference. If your case is more durable, it may have a longer life. If it is thinner, it may be shorter.

Is any iPhone case actually waterproof?

The short answer is yes. IPhone cases can be waterproof, however, no case can withstand consistent submersion. For added insurance, Lopez recommends using a waterproof phone bag like this one from Havianas when going near water.

Anneke Knot is a full-time fashion and beauty freelance writer. Before freelancing, she wrote for Real Simple and Health magazines. Now, she writes about beauty and fashion for multiple publications. In order to find the best iPhone cases, Knot put top cases to the test. In addition, she interviewed professional fashion stylists and a phone case engineer, so they could provide their top recommendations and shopping tips.

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These Are the Best Phone Cases We’re Traveling With Right Now

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The thought of losing or breaking your phone while traveling is probably about as terrifying as the thought of losing your passport. So while you might just use a screen protector or basic case at home or while commuting to work, you might want a little extra protection when you hit the road or travel by plane. That’s why we’ve rounded up some cases specifically for travel.

What to Consider Before Buying a Travel Phone Case

A phone case for travel can mean a number of different things, whether that’s a rugged fitted case or a pouch to store your phone in. For example, you might want a case that can also carry your passport. Or, maybe you’re adventuring. In that case, you might want something rugged or waterproof, such as the drop-resistant Otterbox or waterproof Joto pouch. One of our favorite options is a hard shell zippered case that’s designed for carrying a power bank and phone. The kind of case you choose comes down to how you’re traveling.

How We Chose the Best Travel Phone Cases

Choosing the best travel phone case came down to function, security and convenience. Some of the cases on this list offer drop-resistant protection to withstand the kinds of bumps and scratches that might happen while traveling. Some cases offer a convenient way to store other important travel essentials, such as your passport or ID cards. What they all have in common is that they make traveling with your phone safer and more convenient.

1. Smartish iPhone 12/12 Pro Wallet Case

The more small, individual items you’re carrying, the more likely you are to misplace one of them. Keep all your essentials together with this cleverly designed phone wallet from Smartish. It acts as a case for your phone, and there’s a slot in the back to store a few cards and folded bills. That way, you can skip the wallet and just carry your most-used cards.

Pros : Convenient storage for cards and folded bills. Grippy sides to comfortably hold your phone.

Cons : Not ideal for carrying a lot of cards.

Smartish iPhone 12/12 Pro Wallet Case

2. skynew hard travel case.

Having a phone with a dead battery is about as good as not having a phone, which is why a portable charger is a travel essential. This carrying case from Skynew is designed to carry RAVPower, Anker and other chargers securely in the internal strap. The hardshell zippered features an internal mesh pouch that you can use to store your phone while it charges, or you can carry your phone on the outside using the elastic strap. The double zippered design is secure while making it easy to access your devices.

Pros : Secure storage for phone and portable charger. Includes carabiner clip. Double zip design for easy access.

Cons : Won’t fit all chargers. Too big to fit in a pocket.

Skynew Hard Travel Case

3. speck candyshell grip iphone 11 case, white/black.

This iPhone case from Speck isn’t specifically designed for travel, but it will help protect your phone from the inevitable bumps and scratches you might encounter while running to your gate. The textured design of the case means it’s comfortable to hold and less likely to slip from your hands. But if you do drop it, rest assured — it’s double layered for durability, and it’s designed to withstand up to a 13-foot drop.

Pros : Textured design to fit securely in the hand. Durable design to resist drops.

Cons : No additional storage, unlike some of the other options on this list.

Speck CandyShell Grip iPhone 11 Case, White/Black

4. otterbox defender series.

The OtterBox is a three-layer system that has a built-in screen protector that shields your phone against scratches. The case is resistant to bumps and drops and comes with a belt-clip holster that doubles as a kickstand for video streaming or FaceTime. This is an excellent option for anyone who is traveling outdoors or anywhere where extreme protection is essential because the OtterBox providing protection from dust, dirt, and debris.

Pros : Scratch and drop resistant. Clip holster for easy carrying, which doubles as a kickstand.

Cons : Bulky design.

OtterBox Defender Series

$43.90 $59.95 27% off, 5. matone crystal clear shock absorption case.

Going with a ‘naked’ look, the Matone is ideal for anyone who wants an everyday case that doesn’t look like they’re using a case. Thin and lightweight, the Matone provides a clear view of your iPhone while still providing shock absorption, scratch resistance and TPU bumper cushion on the corners and the back of the phone.

Pros : Clear design for an unobtrusive look.

Cons : Can yellow over time.

Matone Crystal Clear Shock Absorption Case

6. joto universal waterproof case.

This affordable option from Joto is an easy way to make any phone travel-ready. Simply slip your cell into the Joto case and seal it with the snap and lock closure, which instantly makes your phone waterproof and dustproof. Designed for travel, as well as for anyone who wants to take their phone near water, snow, on a hiking trail or to a sandy beach, the Joto has a clear window on the front and back, allowing users to continue using the touch screen on their phone and take pictures without removing the phone from the case. The Joto can also fit small personal items like passports, IDs, and cash with smaller phones. The case also comes with a neck strap to help keep your phone secure during water activities or while traveling.

Pros : Compatible with most phones. Waterproof design makes it good for adventure travel. Suitable for carrying other items.

Cons : Not necessarily ideal for everyday use.

Joto Universal Waterproof Case

Allison Bowsher

Allison spent four years as the Editor and head writer for Much.com, aka the Canadian MTV. During her time at Much, Allison conducted more than 100 on-camera interviews with some of the biggest names…

Jonathan Zavaleta

Jonathan Zavaleta is a native Angeleno with a passion for writing about politics, music, film and fashion. He has worked as a writer for an art gallery, an activist for a political organization, and…

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Best iPhone 13 cases 2024

These are the best iPhone 13 cases that are both stylish and durable

The best iPhone 13 cases are important purchases for anyone that still has the former flagship iPhone. It doesn't matter that new iPhones have been released since 2021, it's always worth protecting the phone you have right now — even if you plan on trading it in for a brand new iPhone 15 .

The phone's design may have a number of features designed to boost its durability, including the Ceramic Shield display, iP68 water resistance and the click metal edged casing. But these features may help avoid scratches and dents, they won't make your phone immune from damage.

But combine the iPhone 13's built in durability with a case, even a basic one, and you're going to have a very robust phone. And given the sheer amount of choice out there, you'll be able to find one that matches your own personal style. Here are the best iPhone 13 cases you can buy right now.

The best iPhone 13 cases you can buy today

1. Apple iPhone 13 case with MagSafe

Specifications, reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

If you're looking for an all-around functional phone case that rocks a clean aesthetic, look no further than Apple's own line of smartphone accessories. You're free to choose from silicon or clear plastic cases, as well as the slightly more premium leather options for maximum protection. Though we're recommending you to go for a clear case that will never go out of style. 

Not only can you admire the original exterior of your brand new device without distracting patterns and textures, you can also take advantage of MagSafe, a feature that gives you the option to further accessorize your iPhone 13 with a MagSafe wallet or a battery pack. It's a bit pricey but this case is versatile. 

2. Casetify Ultra Impact case

Whether you're on the lookout for some of the most fun case designs around or if you're keen on sustainable materials, Casetify has one of the best iPhone 13 cases. Plus, this case is rated to protect the new iPhone from 10-foot drops. According to Casetify, its Ultra Impact designs are regularly tested to sustain even the most "military-grade" drops and made with qìtech 2.0, Casetify's proprietary shock-absorbing material.

Now, let's talk design. Casetify is known for the wide variety of colors and patterns that will compliment your iPhone 13 in the most fun and fashionable way. And the best part? You can swap the color of the bezels to match any design. And if you're picking the case out as a present, you can make it more special by personalizing the design with initials, name, or a favorite phrase. All of Casetify's iPhone 13 range is sold exclusively through its website, retailing at around $65.

3. Razer Arctech Pro case

The Razer Arctech Pro for iPhone 13 makes an interesting case for those looking to maximize their device’s mobile gaming potential. What makes this case unique is that it takes into account everything a mobile gamer might need, including a thermally conductive layer on the back that prevents your smartphone from overheating. 

The Razer Arctech Pro’s signature green-and-black exterior is covered in a non-slip texture, so you’ll be able to have a sturdier grip on your phone throughout your various mobile gaming sessions. The case also supports MagSafe charging and contains an antimicrobial layer that prevents bacteria from growing on your beloved device. This accessory sells exclusively via Razer's official website.

4. Mujjo leather wallet case

If you’re tired of having to carry around both a phone and a wallet, Mujjo’s new iPhone 13 case can help declutter your pockets and handbags. This leather-clad accessory boasts a sophisticated design that is available in three distinct colors and comes equipped with a small pocket that can contain up to three bank/ID cards. 

Mujjo doesn’t compromise on safety either. The leather case’s sleek design extends down to the bottom of your device for extra protection while still allowing easy access to the charging port. The front part of the case also rises a bit above the edge of the glass, protecting your screen from rough surfaces. You can buy this particular design for $45. 

5. Raptic Shield case

The Raptic Shield is a great option for people who want an affordable case that still manages to show off the iPhone’s original design. Thanks to a combination of a metal frame and shock-absorbent body consisting of polycarbonate, rubber and aluminum, the Raptic Shield offers military-grade drop protection of up to 10 feet, even against tough surfaces such as concrete. 

The Raptic Shield comes in six different colors to coordinate with your smartphone. Despite its solid exterior, this case is still compatible with MagSafe chargers, though unfortunately, you won’t be able to attach any MagSafe accessories to it. It's currently available on Raptic's online store for $29.99.

6. Waterfield Latigo leather holster

Waterfield’s Latigo leather iPhone holster combines robust protection with the convenience of a hands-free design. This fashionable accessory comes in three different shades of full-grain leather and is equipped with strong magnets that allow you to attach it to a belt, waistband, or pocket. 

The Latigo leather holster is also lined with an Ultrasuede material on the inside, which helps keep your phone clean and fingerprint-free. It also features a cut-out at the bottom of the case, granting you easy access to the charging port whenever you need it. So if your eyes are set on this case, you can order one via Waterfield's official website. 

8. Mous Limitless 4.0

The Mous Limitless 4.0 is the company's latest premium case option, this time for the iPhone 13. It comes with MagSafe support, plus access to Mous' other magnetic accessories. It comes in a variety of premium material options: leather, carbon fiber, bamboo, walnut, and fiber.

If there's one problem with the Limitless, it's that it's a bit expensive considering that other cases offer similar levels of protection. However, it looks and feels nice. It's hard to go wrong with Mous.

8. Moment case with MagSafe support

Moment makes some of the best iPhone lenses , which snap into its cases, and offer some extra protection. Thanks to its textured design and sturdy build, it's no surprise that this case made it into our top ten of the best iPhone 13 cases. 

Moment's sleek case comes in four gorgeous colors (yellow mustard is our absolute favorite) and has a drop rating of 6 feet, meaning that this case thrives in durability as well. And with the MagSafe support, you'll be able to take advantage of further accessorizing your phone with Apple's MagSafe wallet or a battery pack.

9. Case-Mate Soap Bubble with MagSafe

If you're in search of a clear iPhone 13 case but you still want to stand out, then Case-Mate's Soap Bubble is the case for you. This accessory crosses those generic solid-colored boundaries, offering a simple yet unique iridescent swirl effect to compliment your new smartphone. And it also has MagSafe support, meaning you can pair it with Apple's handy MagSafe accessories, such as the MagSafe wallet and battery pack.

But this case is not all about the aesthetics. Case-Mate's Soap Bubble can easily withstand a 10-foot drop and is coated with the MicroPel antimicrobial protection. This design is also scratch-resistant, meaning that you can rest assured that even months in, your iPhone case won't sport unwanted scratch marks. 

10. Totallee Super Thin iPhone 13 case

You likely won’t find a better example of minimalism than Totallee’s super thin iPhone 13 cases. With a logo-free and nearly weightless design, this case will sit tightly around your smartphone without making it too bulky for your front pocket. 

Totallee’s case is available in four matte colors made with hard and flexible plastic. Alternatively, you can always opt for a softer and more shock-absorbent transparent design or the slightly pricier limited edition carbon fiber look. Either way, this Totallee iPhone case is so thin, you might even forget it’s there. 

How to choose the best iPhone 13 case for you

When picking out the best iPhone 13 case, you should first weigh your options based on durability and protection as this is the main purpose of why you should be getting a case in the first place. Thankfully, the iPhone already guards against damage from water, with an IP68 water resistance rating that provides protection for immersion in up to 6 meters of water for 30 minutes. (And if your iPhone does take a dunk, there's a trick that can eject water out of the iPhone's speakers .)

While a lot of third-party suppliers may offer cases that claim to be tough at a $15 to $20 price tag, you should look at options that are made from high-grade materials. It may seem pricey at first, but it will surely prove to be useful in the long run. And you won't need to worry about AppleCare during your accidental-damage-related visits to the Genius Bar. 

In order to identify a high-quality case, you need to check the accessory's drop rating before getting lost in all the available color options. The higher the rating, the better your iPhone 13 will be protected in case of accidents. However, most phone cases with higher drop ratings are chunkier than those with a slim design. So keep in mind that in some cases you will be sacrificing aesthetics.

Another important factor is the pricing. Good quality iPhone 13 cases cover a wide range of prices — some lower than others — but the middle ground is usually around $40-50 for a quality design. Now, that may seem like a hefty price to pay, but it's worth investing in your phone's long-term use, especially if you're the type to hold your smartphone in your hand at all times. The price usually varies depending on the materials used, additional cooling features, design, and even anti-bacterial coating. 

In the end, it all comes to setting your priorities straight. Fall protection is important, but if you're mainly carrying your phone in a bag and if you're mostly concerned about the exterior, then, of course, the design comes first. Similarly, if you're worried about durability, we're advising you to opt for a case with a higher drop rating. 

How we picked the best iPhone 13 cases

Since it's impossible for us to physically test every single iPhone 13 case out there, we rely on user reviews for our picks here. High ratings and favorable reviews lend a lot of weight to our choices. We also tried to pick from a variety of options for you. We also looked to reputable brands like Otterbox and Apple's own case selection.

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Denise is a Life Reporter at Newsweek, covering everything lifestyle-related, including health, relationships, personal finance, beauty and more. She was formerly a news writer at Tom’s Guide, regularly producing stories on all things tech, gaming software/hardware, fitness, streaming, and more. Her published content ranges from short-form news articles to long-form pieces, including reviews, buying guides, how-tos, and features. When she's not playing horror games, she can be found exploring East London with her adorable puppy. She’s also a part-time piano enthusiast and regularly experiments in the kitchen. 

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DownTheTrail.com

hiking guides, gear, and journals

Here’s the Best iPhone Case for Backpacking in 2023

updated: November 21, 2022

The smartphone is now a critical piece of backpacking gear.

It’s used as a camera, a journal, a book to read…

And sometimes as a telephone!

But outdoor sports are a gritty, dirty business.

There’s dirt, dust, and water. And the impact of clumsy drops.

You need some protection for that $1,000 piece of equipment.

Special Needs for an Active, Outdoor Lifestyle

So we want an iPhone case that can take some hits when you’re rock climbing.

A case that can withstand a dunk in the water on a kayaking trip… a case that’s lightweight for running and hiking.

So a gigantic, heavy, extreme case that can get run over by truck isn’t the answer. We want it to be light and manageable.

Let’s not forget that you’d actually like to use your phone. You want travel pictures, and maybe even to do a little filming. The case shouldn’t be so big that it’s awkward to carry it in your pocket, or slippery to grip with small, clumsy hands.

I like to keep my phone in its case 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Our phones travel almost everywhere with us – like to work and to the gym – so I don’t want to have to swap it every weekend for my outdoor trips. Besides, its good to have that extra protection at all times. You never know when you’re going to drop your phone, or spill something on it.

The Best Choice for Backpacking & Thru-Hiking

I first researched the subject of rugged cases when I was preparing for an Arizona Trail thru-hike in 2019. I’d purchased a new iPhone Xs, and wanted a lightweight case that could withstand the rigors of being outside all day, every day.

So weight was also very important to me. I was counting every ounce.

After considering all the options, I settled on a case called the Lifeproof Fre . In the 3 years (almost 4 years) since then, I’ve exclusively used this model for my phone and I’m very happy with it. It’s been a permanent fixture – not only for all my backpacking, but also cycling, mountaineering, at work, navigating food deliveries in the gig economy… you name it.

By mid 2022, the case had worn down so much (I’ll elaborate in a moment) that I decided it was time for a replacement. So I got another Lifeproof Fre, identical to the first. I think it’s the best all-round iPhone case for those that love to exercise outdoors. And 3 years is a reasonable shelf life for a phone case, no? Most people replace their phones every 2 years or so anyway.

Otterbox (LifeProof) Fre Case Review

Here’s some important notes before diving into the review.

Everything in this post is based on 2 purchases of the LifeProof Fre model for the iPhone Xs. The initial purchase was made in 2019, and then a second purchase was made in 2022. I haven’t upgraded my iPhone from the Xs (iPhone 10). They’re up to the iPhone 14 at the time of this writing, but we can conclude that the Fre model has stayed fairly consistent in its design to match the upgrades.

The LifeProof company was founded in 2011, but has been owned by Otterbox since way back in 2013. Otterbox kept the LifeProof brand intact until recently in 2022, when they chose to retire the brand and repurpose everything under the Otterbox name. So the “LifeProof Fre” phone case is now called the “Otterbox Fre,” but the product is the same.

Cost & Where to Buy

An OtterBox Fre case for your iPhone generally runs from $80 to $100. Yeah, it’s expensive. That’s the reality of buying a truly waterproof phone case with drop protection. These products are made with a high-quality silicone, as opposed to the lower grade silicone that you’ll find in most smartphone cases.

LifeProof cases are known for being waterproof and especially drop resistant (see more about the drop testing below). They come with a 1-2 year warranty (Your phone itself is not guaranteed). You’re also paying a little extra for the OtterBox (or LifeProof) brand, in a similar fashion to Apple products.

All LifeProof Fre cases have built-in screen protection. Other phone cases often require a screen protector, sold separately. I think LifeProof cases are worth the money, especially if you spend a lot of time outside and are generally rough on your phone. When I’m hiking, my phone usually doubles as a camera – the more you handle your device in such conditions, the more likely you are to drop it.

There’s so many generations and variations of the iPhone available that maybe it’s best to shop directly through the OtterBox website to ensure that you’re getting the proper model. You’ll find the widest variety of colors and styles there too.

If you take the time to carefully review the listings on Amazon , however, you’ll often find your desired case at a nominal discount.

Specifications

Since the size and shape of each iPhone generation varies, the specs of each respective case will vary too. Here’s a rundown of published specifications from the OtterBox website.

The OtterBox Drop Test (Military Standard)

The latest OtterBox Fre series conforms to a series of drop tests created by the Defense Department called the “Military Standard.” The serial code to reference the specific drop test is called MIL-STD-810G. If you want to dive deep on it you find the downloadable government PDF on this page .

The test requires a case (with a device inside) to be dropped 26 times from a height of 4 feet. Every corner, edge, and surface must be included a designated number of times. The landing surface is 2 inches of plywood, which itself is on top of concrete.

For OtterBox’s newer iPhone 14 cases, you’ll see something like “5x MIL-STD-810G.” The 5x means that Otterbox exceeded the standard by a multiple of 5 times. So in the chart above, when you see “5x MStandard,” that means that the case was actually dropped 5×26 times, or 130 times!

Are LifeProof Cases Actually Waterproof?

Yes, the LifeProof (now OtterBox Fre) cases are made to be 100% waterproof. They’re additionally protected from snow and dirt. The advertised specifications state that they’re waterproof to a depth of up to 6.6 (2 meters) of water, for up to 30 minutes. This means you should be confident in bringing it in the shower, having it around the hot tub, and so on.

…but be sure to test it.

With that said, LifeProof (OtterBox) stresses that you should perform an underwater test of the case before subjecting your expensive device to such conditions. It’s good common sense to do this, just to make sure you’ve installed the case correctly and haven’t received a defective product.

Since the case is completely waterproof, it keeps out the majority of dirt, dust, and sand. Over time, however, a small amount of dirt will somehow find its way in – especially if you frequent the beach or camp in windy, dusty environments.

Here’s a video I made where I perform a water test with a LifeProof Fre for the iPhone Xs. The paper towel remained completely dry, so the test was success.

Here’s the official water test instructions from the user’s manual:

Your case has been water tested. If you plan to expose your device to water, it is recommended that you perform a installation water test. DO NOT INSTALL DEVICE DURING TEST. Snap case front and back together. Close charge port door. Submerge case face down in water for 30 minutes. Remove, dry, and look inside for moisture. Open charge port door and use a coin to separate case. If dry inside, go to Install Device. If wet inside, contact Support.

Microphone Sound Quality

On the bottom end of the case there’s 2 indentations of thinner material that allow for sound to travel to the microphone. These pits attract dirt and dust collections, and will need to be cleaned often if you want to avoid blocking the microphone to improve sound quality.

I open the charging port during phone calls, but I’m not sure if this actually helps. Obviously the microphone performs better with no case at all, but I’ve never heard complaints from the other end of phone calls because of the LifeProof Fre.

Durability & Personal Experience

After some time, it’s inevitable that a case will ultimately wear down and fail. Let’s face it, we handle our phones a lot . I first purchased a LifeProof Fre case early in 2019, and it didn’t require replacement until February of 2022. So the case lasted for about 3 years.

The first piece to show significant wear was the was the front-right edge, adjacent to the screen. Anyone that takes a lot of photos on an iPhone should know that there’s a shortcut from the lock screen to get straight to the camera – the shortcut is to simply swipe firmly from right to left across the screen (when held upright).

I’m sure it’s the repeated friction of my thumb in this action that caused the material to begin wearing down and peeling away. Soon the wear started to show on the left side, too. Fortunately this area doesn’t affect the functionality of the case whatsoever.

What finally motivated me to replace the case in 2022 was when the buttons stopped working. It was specifically the two volume buttons on the left side that lost their elasticity and broke. I rarely use the knob for silent mode, so that one was still intact.

Some of the buttons may be hard to push when you first install a brand new case, but they quickly become more malleable over time.

Sometimes you’ll see complaints in reviews about the flap that protects the charging / headphone port, but I never had a problem with it. If yours is especially difficult to unfasten, or even breaks, it’s likely a defective product that can be replaced under warranty. In day to day use, however, I’ll often leave the flap open to minimize the wear and tear on this sensitive area – rather than repeatedly snapping it open and closed.

Photos & Camera Quality

The camera quality through LifeProof (OtterBox) Fre cases leaves something to be desired. The selfie camera especially suffers from some blurriness behind the robust screen protector. There’s no way around this, even if you keep your screen clean. You can still get effective selfies, but those looking for the absolute highest-quality images possible from this lens are not going to be satisfied.

I don’t use face detection, but it reportedly works just fine.

The main, rear camera cover tends to get scratched over time, degrading the quality of your pictures from the primary lenses. My original LifeProof case’s lens cover in 2019 got scratched up quickly, but the new one from 2022 seems to be a lot more resistant to wear and tear. So that’s something.

There’s a solution to this problem if you’re serious about photography – simply remove the lens cover from your LifeProof case, and expose the high quality lens of the original iPhone. This eliminates the waterproof efficacy of the case, but it’ll still have a high degree of water resistance and drop protection – the main things I want as a backpacker.

How to Put On & Remove the LifeProof Fre Case

Here’s a video (above) that shows how to install the case. The one below shows how to open and remove it.

Putting it on is pretty straightforward – just be sure to go around the edge and make sure it’s all clicked into place. If the case isn’t closing all the way, I’d wager that it’s likely to be user error, sorry. One possibility, though, is that the the thin rubber gasket came out of place. Just check it and slip it into place. If it’s especially stubborn it may need to be replaced under warranty.

It takes a little bit of muscle and fingernail strength to remove the case. The way to get it started is via the corner of your device, where there’s a small indentation. Next to this indentation there’s a little, sturdy knob. Place your left thumbnail in the indentation, hold your right thumb under the knob, and apply outward force with both thumbs. If this doesn’t work, you can use a tool like a coin or a piece of silverware to apply the necessary force to the indentation.

Here’s the official instructions from the user’s manual:

INSTALL DEVICE Remove any screen protectors and clean device with included cloth. Insert into case front, top first. Snap on case back. Close charge port door. Inspect edges to make sure case is sealed around device.

I guess i didn’t follow the exact directions in the video. Oh well.

REMOVE DEVICE Open charge port door and use a coin to separate case. Pull case apart and remove device.

Dealing with Bubbles

Bubbles in the LifeProof Fre screen are a common problem that occurs where there’s free space between the screen protector and the screen itself. The appearance of these bubbles is not only annoying, but it can make it a little harder to type, too.

Fortunately there’s an easy solution to this. Before installing the screen, simply rub your fingertips on the screen of your phone and the interior side of the LifeProof screen protector. The natural oils from your skin will do wonders to make the 2 screens gel together and eliminate the bubbles. It won’t cause any noticeable marks on the screen either, as long as as your hands are relatively clean.

Overheating and Wireless Charging

I’ve only had trouble with my iPhone overheating in conditions where the weather was very hot (I was in Phoenix) and my phone was exposed to direct sunlight in my vehicle. I’ve never had problems with my phone overheating as a direct result of using its case.

For the record, iPhones are not made to be operated in temperatures that exceed 95 degrees Fahrenheit, or 35 Celsius.

Wireless charging should work with the latest Otterbox cases that include a “MagSafe” magnet. I don’t regularly use wireless charging, but it would not work for me on hotel lamp charger with a standard LifeProof Fre case purchased in 2019.

Lanyard for the LifeProof (OtterBox) Fre

The Fre series does not come with a lanyard, but it’s no problem to attach one. On the bottom left corner you’ll find a small anchor designed to tether it. Here’s a lanyard on Amazon that’s made specifically for LifeProof cases.

Alternative Cases

In your search for a phone case, you’ve probably come across the OtterBox Defender as being comparable to the LifeProof Fre. The main difference between these cases is that the Defender is not waterproof.

Let’s look at some more alternatives.

Pelican Cases

The nearest equivalent you’ll find to OtterBox is a brand called Pelican. They produce all sorts of cases for a wide range of outdoor pursuits. I first came across them in the world of whitewater rafting, when I was interested in a case for my DSLR camera (I ended up using an ammo box instead).

So here’s Pelican’s lineup of marine cases. The specific “Marine” model is genuinely waterproof. Others are listed as being “splashproof” (at an IP4 rating instead of being completely waterproof), but that’s still a good fit for hiking, climbing, and so on.

Catalyst Cases

Catalyst is a company that specializes in cases for electronics. Their focus seems to be on Apple products, but they make waterproof cases for a handful of Samsung Galaxy models, too. Their “total protection” lineup is waterproof.

Flotation for Kayaking

For rafting, kayaking, and water sports in general, you might want a case that includes some sort of flotation. Your waterproof case does no good, after all, if your phone ends up at the bottom of the lake.

One option is to consider getting a dedicated floatie and attaching it to your phone via a lanyard. Just be sure it has enough flotation – phones are getting big and heavy nowadays. I used this one years ago for an Olympus Tough camera. That camera was like a brick, so I’m confident its floatie should work for a phone, too.

Floating Pouches

Another option is to get a dedicated waterproof pouch. The top-rated pouches that include flotation are the AquaVault , the CaliCase Universal , and the Vansky .

Pelican makes one too.

Related posts:

About Jamie Compos

I'm the guy behind DownTheTrail.com. I love the outdoors, and the Grand Canyon is my favorite destination. Be sure to subscribe to my newsletter (at the bottom of the page), or else I'll slip a rock into your backpack when you're not looking.

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The Best Phone Cases, Tested & Reviewed

The secret to a phone that looks shiny and new.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Though cell phones tend to be much more durable than they were a few years ago, investing in a protective phone case remains one of the easiest and most affordable ways to keep your device looking as good as new. Not only can a phone case help prevent your device from gathering too many ugly scratches, dents or marks, but some of the more rugged designs can stop it from shattering should it fall out of your hands.

Below we’ve narrowed down our favorite phone cases for iPhone and Android users, including stylish picks available in fun colors and prints as well as ones with extra features like straps, built-in wallets, MagSafe compatibility and more.

Our top picks:

Best Overall Phone Case

Otterbox symmetry for magsafe.

Best Value Phone Case

Incipio duo.

Best Clear Phone Case

Spigen ultra hybrid.

Best Waterproof Phone Case

Lifeproof frē series.

Best Phone Case for Style

Casetify impact case.

Best Wallet Phone Case

Smartish wallet slayer vol. 1.

Best iPhone Phone Case

Apple silicone case.

Best Leather Phone Case

Nomad modern leather case.

Best Phone Case with Straps

Bandolier hailey.

Best Multipurpose Phone Case

Peak design everyday case.

Whether you need a phone case that’ll protect your device from everyday wear and tear or one that can survive collisions with unforgiving sidewalks, these are the best cell phone cases to help keep your phone looking flawless, according to testing and rave consumer feedback.

After checking out our favorite picks, which include everything from the best iPhone phone cases to phone cases for ultimate protection, waterproof phone cases and more, keep scrolling to find out what to look for when choosing the right phone case brand for you.

If you have a habit of dropping your phone, look no further than OtterBox phone cases. Since 1998, this phone case brand has been developing cases with its signature DROP+ certification, meaning that each case has been tested to withstand multiple drops from at least four feet above. Our product analysts like that the Symmetry for MagSafe case gives you the same level of protection you can expect from the rugged Otterbox Defender Series , only this time without the added bulk. Its ultra-slim yet protective design makes it perfect for carrying your phone around in your pocket.

The Symmetry case is available for most latest phone models and it's offered in a wide range of color and style options, plus, it's MagSafe. For easy gripping like when you're scrolling in bed, our pros also recommend the Otter + Pop iPhone case that comes with a swappable PopSocket.

Sometimes all you need is a classic, comfortable case that does the job, which is where the Incipio Duo comes in. This slim case is not only protective but it features raised edges to keep your screen safe should your phone slip away. Our pros like the case’s soft exterior that makes it easy and pleasant to grip as well as its ultra-responsive buttons. For those with newer phones, you can find the Duo available for the latest iPhone 15 as well as some of the most popular Androids .

Not only does this phone case have a hard to beat price, but its clear design lets you show off your smartphone ’s original design while still protecting it from any accidents. If you own an iPhone or Android, you’ll likely be able to find a compatible case, but we like this pick for iPhones in particular since you have the option of not only a transparent case, but clear cases with bumpers to match your phone’s color or even matte and frosted versions. While we haven’t tested this one in the Lab yet, our pros like that the case is built with anti-yellow blue resin so the material should remain transparent for longer.

Worried about dropping your phone in the pool or lake? This FRĒ case designed by LifeProof (and owned by OtterBox) was made for you. It protects your phone from water, snow, dirt and even the floor in case you drop it thanks to a sturdy design that also features a built-in screen protector. “This case is much more protective and durable than any phone case I've tried in the past,” one tester says.

In our Lab tests, we were able to completely submerge the waterproof phone case under about 6.5 feet of water continuously for an hour without harm — and yes, the fingerprint sensor that unlocks the phone still worked. Though some testers found the case too bulky for everyday use and not quite as attractive as other phone cases, we think it’s a top choice for adventures, traveling and anyone who wants their phone to be protected against accidents and nature's elements.

You've likely come across this popular phone case brand, which has no shortage of choices when it comes to best-selling prints and designs . Not only do Casetify phone cases represent your style, but they also help protect your phone from everyday mishaps, like this Impact Case that was designed to withstand drops up to 8.2 feet, according to the brand.

Fortunately, the majority of Casetify’s cases support wireless charging but if you’re looking for a MagSafe phone case , you can find that too. Though they're pricey, our pros found that Casetify phone cases held up well over time and effectively protected phones when dropped. But if you find that you need a bit more protection, you can always opt for a heavy-duty Ultra Bounce Case .

Ditch your wallet and make some room for credit cards and cash on your smartphone with the Smartish Wallet Slayer Vol. 1. This flexible softback wallet case is designed to hold up to three credit cards, but you can likely fit some cash and maybe even a fourth card depending on the thickness.

Our experts like that the case is constructed with a lip to help prevent your valuables from falling out and that the textured sides are super easy to grip. Best of all, this protective case is likely to survive any drop test you throw at it. Just keep in mind that it’s not compatible with wireless charging, but it's available in a variety of fun prints and you can even opt for the Wallet Slayer 2 if you prefer a phone case with a less plastic-y texture.

You won’t find a better fit for your iPhone than a case made by Apple itself. Our pros like the Silicone Case in particular, which features a soft, silky backing that makes the case comfortable to hold in your hand while a microfiber-lined interior helps protect your device from unwanted scratches. It's not the most bulletproof phone case you'll find and the edges are only raised minimally, but it’s perfect for anyone who wants to hang onto the iPhone’s slim, minimalist feel with the bonus of added protection.

Our pros like that the Silicone Case is sold in a variety of shades so you can match your case to your phone and that it’s compatible with MagSafe and Qi wireless charging. But if you’re looking for a slightly different look or feel, we’re also long-time fans of Apple’s leather phone case (which was unfortunately discontinued for the iPhone 15) or this clear Apple phone case .

We haven’t yet tested this elegant, leather phone case from Nomad in the Lab, but our pros can’t wait to get their hands on it. Whether you choose a phone case made of full grain leather or a slightly more expensive tanned Horween leather, we expect it’ll age nicely over time while still protecting your phone from damage thanks to a microfiber lining, raised edges and a bumper.

Though the case looks minimalist, Nomad claims that it’s constructed to withstand drops up to 8 feet. In addition to being MagSafe, we like that you have the choice between three timeless, neutral shades: black, brown or English tan. And for those who like using their phone as a wallet, the Nomad’s folio case is another classy option to consider.

This stylish phone case tops our list of best iPhone cases (sorry Android lovers, but it’s only available for iPhones!). What sets it apart from other phone cases isn’t just its leather design. The Hailey doubles up as a wallet and purse , featuring crossbody straps so you can always keep your phone on you — including days when your dress doesn’t have pockets. Our tech analysts love that the straps are easily detachable, and we found the slim wallet to be the perfect size. Though it may not be MagSafe (the Hailey Folio and other Bandolier cases are), the chic design makes it 100% worth it.

Having a phone case is great (and usually necessary), but what if you could find one that does a bit more than protect your phone? The Everyday Case does just that by being compatible with Nomad's vast ecosystem of mounts and handy accessories that easily snap on, including a tripod, wallet, bike mount and much more. Our analysts like that on top of being super versatile, the Everyday Case is compatible with MagSafe and features a slim, lightweight and attractive design that’ll flatter your iPhone, Samsung or Pixel . It should also do a solid job of protecting your phone thanks to its weatherproof shell and 6-foot drop protection, according to the brand.

For some of us, it can be painful to invest in a new, shiny phone just to cover it up with a phone case. Our tech analysts tested the Arc for more than six months to prove whether its minimalist design could survive everyday wear and tear (in addition to several drops onto concrete) and it surprised us by how well it protected the device and absorbed any shock. Though the case itself eventually ended up scuffed up, the phone was never damaged. Best of all, you can use your phone with MagSafe or wireless chargers without any interference.

Zagg Mophie Juice Pack

Those with an older iPhone 7, 8 or SE who feel like their phone is always dying will appreciate this battery case from Mophie that gives your phone some new life. Not only does it keep your phone away from harm, but it provides it with some extra power. According to our pros, the phone case is surprisingly thin for having a built-in backup battery that can wirelessly supply your phone with up to 27 hours of battery life, according to the brand. We like that there’s an on/off button so overcharging isn’t a concern and that it can be charged wirelessly. While it's not available for more recent iPhones, Android users with the Samsung Galaxy S10e can purchase the Mophie case as well.

Speck Presidio Folio

The Speck Presidio Folio is a minimalist folio case designed to store up to three credit cards, though we found you can get away with storing four cards and some cash. While it's only available for older iPhone models, we love that it comes equipped with a discreet card slot on the case’s interior to keep your necessities handy yet not exposed to everyone. Our pros also like that its design is durable (though a few color and pattern options would be preferred) and that the case can be propped up with an adjustable viewing stand for long car trips or flights.

How we test the best phone cases

The product analysts and engineers at the GH Institute Media & Tech Lab have evaluated more than 50 phone cases in the past three years alone for their ease of use, performance, comfort, durability and design.

We’ve also recruited more than 100 consumer testers to use phone cases for multiple days and share real-world feedback . Our picks above are comprised of top-performing phone cases from Lab tests as well as new and innovative variations we’ve been hands-on with as well as those our testers rave about.

When assessing ease of use and design, we rate how easy it is to take a phone case on or off, factoring in whether buttons remain responsive and ports are accessible. We also evaluate how the phone case looks and feels. Is it comfortable to hold and nice to touch? Does it look stylish and of high quality? Next, we test phone cases for performance and durability. We observe how well phone cases hold up over time as well as how effectively they protect a phone when it’s dropped by drop-testing phone cases and assessing any damage incurred.

For phones that claim to be MagSafe or Qi wireless charging compatible, we note whether phones charge properly to ensure that these claims are accurate. For phone cases that claim to be waterproof, we submerge them in water for a set time to assess any water damage.

What to look for when shopping for a phone case

✔️ Durability: Though having some sort of phone case is usually better than having no phone case at all, you’ll want to choose whether you need one that’s extra durable or one that’s on the slimmer, more minimalist side. While some phone cases are super tough and have been constructed to withstand more serious drops, others put style and design first. Once you’ve made your choice, you’ll want to ensure that the phone case fits snugly around your phone so if your phone were to fly out of your hands, it’ll stay inside its case. It’s also important to check whether the case has raised edges that will help protect your screen and cameras when it hits the ground.

✔️ Materials: Phone cases are constructed from several different materials, oftentimes flexible TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) and durable PC (polycarbonate). PC is lightweight and impact resistant, but a pricier material that is commonly found in luxury hardshell luggage, while TPU offers a great mix of flexibility and durability while remaining lightweight. If you prefer a softer, more luxurious feel you can also opt for a leather phone case exterior or a more flexible silicone. Ultimately the best way to choose the right material for you is to test (and touch) multiple phone cases to gauge how they feel in your hand and whether they’re easy and comfortable to grip or if they feel too slippery.

✔️ Compatibility: No phone case is one-size-fits-all so it’s super important to make sure that you purchase the correct case for your phone. To do so, check exactly what phone model you have and buy a case that was specifically designed for it; for instance, if you have an iPhone 15, you’ll need a phone case made for iPhone 15 . Also, if you have a newer device and would like to charge it wirelessly, you’ll need to purchase a phone case that claims to support MagSafe or Qi wireless charging so you don’t have to take your phone case on and off just to charge it. You should also ensure that charging ports are easily accessible and not blocked by your case’s design, though this isn’t typically an issue when you purchase a compatible case for your phone.

✔️ Extra features: If an extra durable, protective phone case is what you’re after, consider one that is waterproof or features built-in screen protection. Former GH Chief Technologist Rachel Rothman suggests checking whether the phone case has an IP rating, which will indicate whether it can be submerged in water. “An IPX7 rating means that the phone case is waterproof based upon a submersion test of up to one meter in water for 30 minutes,” Rothman says. If you’re someone who’s always draining your cellphone’s battery, you can get a phone case with a built-in battery to extend your phone’s life or purchase a battery pack attachment . Some phone cases even have wallets inside so you can store a few credit cards and cash, while others may include a kickstand for watching movies or a PopSocket or something similar integrated into the case to help you better grip your phone.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

For decades, the Good Housekeeping Institute has been providing expert reviews and advice on cellphone accessories like the best phone cases.

Fariha Ahmed originally wrote this piece, vetting a majority of the picks above and leading consumer testing of the phone cases featured. This guide was most recently updated by Media & Tech Reviews Analyst Olivia Lipski , who covers everything from tech to travel, fitness, home and more. Not only does she bring years of product review experience to GH, but she's made it a habit to rotate through the latest cell phone cases every few weeks to discover the best ones.

Olivia (she/her) is a media and tech product reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute , covering tech, home, auto, health and more. She has more than five years of experience writing about tech trends and innovation and, prior to joining GH in 2021, was a writer for Android Central, Lifewire and other media outlets. Olivia is a graduate of George Washington University, with a bachelor's degree in journalism, political science and French, and she holds a master’s degree in communications from Sciences Po Paris.

Rachel Rothman was the chief technologist and executive technical director of the Good Housekeeping Institute for over 15 years , overseeing testing methodology, implementation and reporting for all GH Labs. She also managed GH's research division and the analysis of applicants for the GH Seal and all other testing emblems. 

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The Best iPhone Cases, According to Cool People

When your iPhone falls, it’s always in slow motion. Otherwise there wouldn’t be enough time for you to feel your heart stop, regret every decision that brought you to that moment, and then give up and look on helplessly as you wait for the glass to shatter into a 1,000-piece puzzle . And of course, you didn’t sign up for AppleCare. To help you avoid turning your life into a series of chaotic Zack Snyder action sequences, we asked 14 stylish people (including a few phone-loving Strategist writers) to tell us about the cases they use to protect their precious iPhones. Their favorites include thin, sleek-looking options, cases so thick they look like they could be dropped off a building, bumper cases that safely bounce, and more artsy cases that protect while also providing some self-expression. One quick note before we begin: While most of the cases featured in this story are for the iPhone 14, you should be able to find a majority of them for older models.

Best clear iPhone cases

It’s all about “functionality,” says Octavio Platon Akel, an illustrator and creator of the stylish footwear Instagram page Monsieur Saturday . He’s used the Clear Case on his iPhone 12 since getting it last year. “The most important thing is protection from my two kids — a 3-year-old and a 1-year-old,” he says. “They fight over the phone, and the case protects it when it inevitably flies all over the place.” Akel likes the minimal design and says he also needed his case to be sleek enough that he can quickly grab his phone out of his back pocket while dealing with situations with his kids (or photo ops).

“I’ve always had a thing for clearish phone cases,” says Strategist staff writer Tembe Denton-Hurst, who uses the Spigen Ultra on her iPhone 12. “If I’m spending so much money, at the very least, you should be seeing the phone I paid for.” She chose this one after a quick search on Amazon, because she liked the raised bezels that protect the screen and the camera bump. Unlike other cases, this one also has larger covers on the volume rockers and power button, making them much more responsive. Plus, “its back is clear but the edges match my phone color, which I think looks sleek but still has a little bit of flair,” she says. A year later, Denton-Hurst says the case is still holding up, “I’ve dropped my phone maybe 100 times since I got the case — the thing is unbreakable.”

Designer Amardeep Singh always chooses low-profile minimal cases. “This one is grippy, which is nice, and has a lip for the front and for the cameras, which is kind of the only thing I look for in a case,” he says. The lips keep the delicate surfaces of your phone raised and protected from anything you might set your phone on.

After using the Casetify Impact case for a few weeks, I really appreciate the lifted camera ring, which protects the phone’s multiple cameras from getting scratched when you lay it down on a table or slip it into your pocket. I was also surprised by how light the case felt compared to the more bulky leather cases I’ve tried in the past. If you want a little more personality in your phone case, Casetify also has graphic options with the same impact technology.

Best thin iPhone case

Thin cases protect your phone without adding weight or bulk, keeping it comfortable to hold and easy to use. The case was suggested to us by Isaac Hindin-Miller , a DJ and the founder of I Like You . After using thick cases in the past and still smashing his screen into oblivion, he now prefers the thin and sleek Peel case. We’ve been fans of Peel for years at New York magazine, too. Contributors Jake Swearingen and Paris Martineau describe Peel cases as “low-key [options] that won’t hide the glory of your shiny new iPhone from the world.” They say the cases are “crazy thin — like, ‘you will forget you have a case on’ thin … [and] still offer some protection if you fumble your phone onto the sidewalk.” Strategist columnist Chris Black found his Peel cover via Instagram. He says it’s the definition of barely there, so innocuous you barely notice it on your phone. Although it doesn’t provide any protection for the camera lenses, “the price is right, and it fits in the pocket comfortably,” he says, before adding that Peel also makes a great glass protector .

This case comes in both slim and “tough” options. “I got the tough version of this case” — in two different designs — “which features a silicone liner for accidents,” says Strategist writer Ambar Pardilla, “and they feel surprisingly light to hold. They also have a glossy, collage-you’d-see-in-a-college-zine look that I really like.”

Best ecofriendly iPhone case

We were put on to the Pela case by Bianca Valle , an artist , nutritionist, and all-around creative, who uses it for her iPhone 12. The soft and flexible case is biodegradable and made from flax-straw materials that will break down naturally in compost. Valle says she’s a fan of the green color, since it matches with almost anything. There’s also a wrap-around lip that protects the camera and your screen from scratches.

Best rubber iPhone case

Illustrator Maggie Stephenson bought this case because she loves the nonslip material and says, “the cases almost have a rubbery feel to them, which is great if you’re clumsy like me.” Before getting this one, she had several phones “literally slip out of my hand and break,” and one time a phone “slid across the kitchen counter … only to fall on the ground and shatter.” But that’s no longer an issue for her, thanks to this case. “Another bonus is the clean look and the trendy colors,” she says. “It’s hard to pick just one!”

Best blocky iPhone case

If the rounded corners of your iPhone make it hard to grip, a case with squared edges can help. Case-Mate’s BLOX case gives your iPhone right angles on every corner. That adds a bit of volume at those corners, but it also gives the phone extra protection against drops and makes it easier to grip with one hand. The case has a thin profile that doesn’t add too much bulk, and it’s MagSafe compatible, so it’ll work with all your add-ons, too.

Best iPhone case to accessorize

If MagSafe accessories simply aren’t cutting it, Peak Design’s Everyday case has its own accessory system that lets it attach to things like bike mounts, car mounts, or a mini-tripod for on-the-go photography and group selfies. It’s also MagSafe compatible, which makes it the most versatile case you can get for accessories. The case also comes in a version with a loop that stows flat and allows you to hold the phone more securely. Both versions only come in charcoal or sage, but they look great.

If you like decking out your phone in accessories, or you just want a stronger magnetic connection to your existing accessories, Moft’s Snap Case is the best option. It has stronger magnets inside than most cases, including the Peak Design, so the connection to accessories like a MagSafe PopSocket or battery feels more secure. Moft also has its own line of MagSafe accessories, such as a three-card wallet that doubles as a stand, as well as a battery that magnetically snaps to the back of your phone. There’s even a model for the iPhone 13 , and it works just as well with other companies’ MagSafe accessories as Moft’s own.

Best iPhone case with colorful options

If you want a case that’s nice to look at and is still tough enough to protect your phone from drops, get a Wildflower case. “I just bought a Wildflower case for my new iPhone 14 Pro because I too aspire to be like Devon Lee Carlson ,” says Strategist lead editor Maxine Builder, “More practically, the Wildflower case I was using to protect my iPhone SE over the last three years was a tank.” The case comes in a variety of colors and designs that are certain to make your phone pop.

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Today’s Top Clicked

The Best Travel Tech Organizers to Keep Cords Neat and Tidy

By Kelsey Glennon

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

It’s on every packing list , though we hardly need to write it down to remember it: a smartphone. Few of us travel without one these days, and more often than not, our technology haul extends beyond just a phone; a tablet or e-reader, digital camera, laptop, portable charger, and wireless headphones may be on the list, too. Whether you’re working remotely or not, chances are you’re bringing your entire digital setup with you. But throwing a tangle of cords and technology in your carry-on is a recipe for frustration when you find your face pressed up against the tray table, blindly searching for a charging cable in your under-seat bag.

Where there’s a digital device, there are its accessories, and tech organizers keep them tidy and easy to find while you’re in transit. If you like the organization of a toiletry bag for your body and skincare, why not a tech bag for your digital gear?

Travel tech organizers come in many different designs. There are hard-shell, soft-shell, folio, and roll-up varieties that are designed with different layers of pouches, elastics, zippers, and pockets. In my own experience, simple designs come out on top. Look for adjustable straps and pockets that will grow with you and your tech gear.

Everyone's needs are slightly different for their own digital Dopp kit, so you'll want to first take stock of your essentials. Lay all your gear out on a table to help determine what kind of bag will fit your tech travel setup. Then, read on for our most-recommended travel tech organizers.

• Best overall: The Guzo utility pouch
• Best budget pick: Travelon tech accessory organizer
• Best for remote workers: Mosiso laptop bag
• Best for photographers: Peak Design tech pouch
• Best for Apple users: The Function 101 BentoStack Charge 8000
• Best for everyday use: Dagne Dover Arlo tech organizer
• Best colorways: Calpak tech organizer
• Best size options: Wandrd tech bag
• Best water-resistant case: Bellroy tech kit
• Best discreet organizer: BookBook CaddySack
• Best style: Parker Clay Olivia organizer

Best overall

Parker Clay’s bags are made of fine Ethiopian leather and abide by the highest standards of ethical manufacturing and sustainable sourcing. The leather goods brand partners with Ellilta Women at Risk (EWAR), to hire and train at-risk women in craftsmanship. Its bags are not only made sustainably (read more about the brand's leather production and sourcing here ), they’re also well-designed and timeless in their construction. The Guzo Utility Pouch is a chameleon of travel bags: Use it as a slim tech pouch that you can slide into any tote , or transform it into a handy clutch you bring to a cafe or out to dinner.

Standout features: A sleeve slips over your palm to make this bag cup into your hand, so it doesn’t slip out of your grasp while you hold it.

What we love most: It can transform into a chic clutch by night if you’re trying to pack a tight capsule wardrobe .

Dimensions: 10"L x .25"W x 7"H

Best budget pick

Tech organizers don’t have to be complicated, they just need to be easy to find in your bag when you need them. The Travelon tech accessory organizer in the color lime pops, and is easy to spot quickly, even in the dark. The roll-up design makes it compact and malleable in any bag. Made of ripstop fabric, the water- and stain-resistant exterior would also hold up on backpacking or outdoor trips if you’re stuffing it in a jam-packed hiking pack .

Standout features: The flexible roll-up design makes this ideal for tucking into empty corners of any backpack or bag.

What we love most: Malleable yet tough ripstop construction 

Dimensions : 6.5"L x 1"W x 5"H

Best for remote workers

If you’re a digital nomad , chances are your laptop goes with you everywhere, which means chargers and accessories are a must-carry too. This Mosiso laptop bag cuts down on the number of bags and cases you need: It’s a shoulder bag, cushioned laptop sleeve, and tech organizer all in one. Available in standard 13" and 16" sizes that fit most laptops, the Mosiso keeps your laptop in a cushy cocoon with 360-degree padding. On the outside, tuck all of your laptop accessories into soft zippered pouches. Big enough to hold external hard drives and battery packs, you won’t forget them when they’re attached to your laptop.

Standout features: Keep laptop accessories in the same place as your laptop to avoid fishing around for them in another bag. Carry it like a briefcase, or attach the sling strap and make it a day bag you can bike or walk with hands-free.

What we love most: A luggage sleeve that slips over your carry-on handle

Dimensions : 16.57”L x 11.81”W x 2.36”H

Best for photographers

Peak Design is known for designing with the travel photographer in mind. The Peak Design tech pouch is a padded, semi-rigid carry-all that can stand upright on its own and opens like a clam with a 270-degree zipper. Interior accordion-like compartments are designed to separate key photography gear and snug elastics hug SD cards. A pen holder keeps a stylus handy in one place. Large pockets open up for charging blocks, power banks, and hard drives. An exterior zippered pouch holds need-to-reach items without unloading the whole bag. Peak Design’s proprietary anchor system and strap transform this tech pouch into a small day bag when you need it.

Standout features: A hand sleeve that slides over your palm makes this easy to open on the go without needing a flat surface to set it on. Plus, it can accommodate bulky items like a small point-and-shoot camera, a mouse, or a battery.

What we love most: The charging cable pass-through allows you to plug in your device from the outside without taking out the cable and battery.

Dimensions: 6"L x 9.5"W x 4"H

Best for Apple users

Both a battery pack and a tech organizer, the Function 101 BentoStack Charge 8000 is a stackable hardshell case geared toward Apple loyalists. The Charge 8000 offers three ways to charge, which can be used simultaneously: a USB-C port, USB-A port, and wireless charging. Four different storage layers provide a space for everything, which includes two shallow layers for your Apple Pencil and Apple watchbands; and two deeper layers for larger items like AirPods, charging cables, and wall charging bricks. Mix and match the layers as you like, and keep it all together with a color-matched silicon band.

Standout features: Apple’s love for minimalist design makes this Japanese–inspired tech storage box blend in seamlessly with your products.

What we love most: It’s a hefty battery bank with handy attached storage, which keeps a suite of Apple accessories tidy and juiced up on the go.

Dimensions: 7.75"L x 3.75"W  x 4.6"H

Best for everyday use

This mini tech organizer from Dagne Dover might as well live in your everyday tote. The Dagne Dover Arlo tech organizer in the small version is an agile addition to your travel kit because of its nimble size—tuck it into a belt bag, travel sling , or day pack without much added bulk. Designed to keep your laptop and phone basics handy, this neoprene organizer doesn’t leave extra space for items to slip around. Everything is kept snug using elastics and mesh pockets made of recycled plastic.

Standout features: Try it in two sizes—small and large, and swap them out for shorter or longer trips.

What we love most: The small size makes this easy to add to day bags, belt bags, or slings without taking up too much space or adding bulk.

Dimensions: Small: 4.5" L x 2.25"W x 5”H; large: 8"L x 3.25"W x 5.25"H

Best colorways

Calpak’s travel tech organizer doesn’t reinvent the wheel here, but they do make it a lot more colorful and fun. This lay-flat organizer has elastics for storing rolled-up cords, and a zippered pouch perfect for USBs, hard drives, or charging bricks. The trouble won’t be figuring out how to organize your tech, it’ll be choosing from one of 16 different colorful patterns that show off your style and personality.

Standout features: A mesh pouch makes loose items easy to spot and grab quickly. Elastics and snug slip pockets keep anything from spilling out when you open it.

What we love most: The array of fun colors and classic patterns you can choose from.

Dimensions: 7"L x 9.5"W x 1.5"H

Best size options

Wandrd started as a Kickstarter designing bags for on-the-go photographers . Today, its travel bags are useful for any traveler looking for durable, gear-protecting bags backed by a lifetime guarantee. The Wandrd tech bag is offered in three different sizes which can nest together, or be bought and used separately. Built with an array of straps and grab points on the outside, you can attach these to your backpack or weekender using basic carabiners. An optional strap transforms the Wandrd tech bag into a compact sling. Earthy, neutral colors like Aegean blue, Yuma tan, and Sedona orange are fun variations to basic black, though that is offered too.

Standout features: Choose from a small, medium, or large version depending on your needs. Or, nest them together for an agile set of organizers that grows with your packing list.

What we love most: The fleece-lined zippered pouch (in the large size) keeps your iPhone cushioned and scratch-free.

Dimensions : Small: 7.75"L x 2"W 4.5"H; medium: 9"L x  3"W x 4.5"H; large:  9"L x 4"W x 5.5"H

Best water-resistant case

This semi-hardshell case from Bellroy carries just the essentials in a compact design. Available in 11 neutral colors made from recycled water-resistant woven fabric, the Bellroy is built to last and backed by a three-year warranty. A floating interior wall forms the interior pocket and closes with a satisfying magnetic click. Elastics hold dongles and other small items you may be prone to losing at the bottom of a bag.

Standout features: A firm, padded exterior give you peace of mind that your tech won’t get knocked or jostled around—essential for hard drives. Everything has a place in this organizer that keeps your accessories from moving an inch.

What we love most: The three-year warranty and water-resistant exterior

Dimensions : 5.12"L x 9.06"W x 2.8"H

Best discreet organizer

Disguised as a leather-bound book, the CaddySack tech organizer by Twelve South is great for those who like to sprawl out at the cafe but worry their AirPods might get swiped when they’re not looking. Zip up this organizer and it turns into an incognito book. Though CaddySack designs for Apple products, the interior Velcro straps aren't limiting, so whether you're packing a Mac brick, mouse, or travel outlet adapter, it'll fit right in. Suit up all your tech in a slick literary sleeve with the rest of its BookBook cases.

Standout features: A tweed interior and leather exterior give this tech organizer a polished look and feel.

What we love most: When you’re not traveling, this case looks great on an office bookshelf as an incognito way to keep cords together at home.

Dimensions : 5.7"L x 1.6"W x 8"H

The Parker Clay Olivia organizer is thoughtfully designed in partnership with HGTV interior designer Sabrina Soto . Design and organization go hand-in-hand and it shows in this full-grain leather bag’s accordion construction. It separates little bits and bobs and offers quick access to everything at a glance. You don’t need two hands to unzip, unlatch, or pull open a pocket—a smart feature for hurried travelers. Grab a few of the six neutral colors and use them for toiletries, makeup, and your tech.

Standout features: Durable leather construction allows it to stand up on its own

What we love most: Details like a brass zipper pair well with full-grain leather that will age nicely with time.

Dimensions : 8.5"L x 3"W x 6"H

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The 11 Best Travel Tech Organizers of 2024

On-the-go organization and storage for all your tech essentials.

Katherine Alex Beaven is a Los Angeles-based travel, food and drink, and culture writer.

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Travel + Leisure / Brian Kopinski

Keeping your tech organized and accessible is essential for a stress-free travel experience. Sure, we used to just toss our tech items in a clean toiletry case and call it a day, but that was before we had so much stuff. These days it seems like there’s a different cable for every device, and a different device for practically everything. We’d rather spend a little extra time in the sun than be fiddling with tangled charging cords or searching for the correct generation USB plug. 

These travel tech organizers will keep you juiced up, plugged in, and zoned out without skipping a beat. We’ve got picks for the ultra-minimalist who can survive with the bare essentials, the unabashed maximalist who needs space for everything, and everyone in between.

Best Overall

Calpak tech organizer.

It’s got a packable, slim profile but still fits the essentials. 

The retention bands can lose elasticity quickly when storing overly bulky items.  

This minimalist bag has a spot for all your essential travel tech accessories and comes with the quality and cachet of the Calpak name. The clamshell design makes it a cinch to grab your gear without fiddling with deep pockets or multiple organization layers. Plus, this tech organizer sports the right amount of padding — enough to cushion but so much that adds unnecessary bulk — and its slim 1.5 inch-deep profile still fits nicely in a carry-on or personal item bag. The top grab handle makes it easy to pull out and carry, too. 

All three full-side storage pockets have convenient pull tab zippers, and two have front mesh fabric, so you can assess their contents in one quick look. We found the two interior slip pockets large enough to hold a portable charging bank and loved how the four elastic retention bands kept our cords separated, snug, and at the ready. Just note that these bands can stretch out over time; faster if you store very thick or bulky cords. Plus this case comes in 12 colors and patterns, so it’s simple to pair the perfect bag with your travel style. 

The Details: 9.5 x 7 x 1.5 inches | 0.25 pounds | Polyester and polyethylene

Best Budget

Bevegekos tech organizer travel case.

You get twice the usual storage area with this organizer’s two-layer, double-clamshell design.

The smaller compartments are tiny and reduce the overall functionality of the organizer. 

There are not a lot of bells and whistles with this basic organizer, but it delivers for anyone who doesn’t travel often or those who don’t have many tech accessories to pack. We really liked the extra value that the double-layer clamshell design gives. Instead of the usual two interior storage walls, this organizer has four. You’ll get two larger slip pockets for storing a smartphone or charging bank, three medium-sized mesh pockets for things like wireless earbuds or USB charging cables, and a deep slip pocket with two fairly tight small mesh slip pockets on top. The two small mesh pockets can only really fit something small, like an SD card, leaving it to feel a bit outdated and like a waste of space. Instead, we’d rather see this whole panel used as another large slip pocket. This bag also comes in medium and large versions, with varying dimensions and deeper pocket sizes.

The Details: 7.48 x 4.33 x 2.16 inches | 3.87 ounces | Jacquard | Water-resistant

Best Roll-up

Procase travel gear organizer.

The elastic closure band keeps it secure whether it’s stuffed or slightly filled. 

There is a risk of items slipping out if the elastic on the interior pockets loosens.

Unlike a zippered bag with a fixed width, this rolling design allows you to pack in a variety of tech accessories without having to worry as much about volume constraints. With this organizer bag, you’ll be able to stuff all the pockets and roll it up. The elastic band closure will secure the roll whether you’ve packed a lot or a little. Other rolling bags we’ve seen have a fixed snap or buckle closure, which means you’ve got to fill the bag exactly in order to get a secure closure. We also like that when this unrolls, your entire tech set is laid out and easy to access. Storage compartments include three mesh zippered pockets, six retention bands for cords, three mini slip pockets, and two expandable nylon slip pockets. We do want to flag that once the elastic pockets start to loosen, you may run the risk of some items sliding out. 

The Details: 17 x 9 inches (laid flat), 4.5 × 9 inches (rolled up) | 4.6 ounces | Nylon | Water-resistant 

Best Everyday Use

Dagne dover tech organizer.

Dagne Dover

There’s a D-ring loop that can clip into a main bag for easy locating on the go.

It’s best used with Apple products.

This simple but effective tech organizer from Dagne Dover is a no-fuss solution for making sure you always have your essential tech accessories with you. Like with many compact travel tech organizers, the Dagne Dover Arlo Tech Organizer seems to work best with Apple products (or products with a similar size and shape). It’s a great organizer for everyday use during commutes with compartments for a computer charging cable extender, charging brick, a small USB charging wall adapter, and a USB charging cord. We also like the small, plastic D-ring that can be clipped into a larger commuter backpack. The tough neoprene material is waterproof, too. So if you get caught in bad weather, you don’t have to panic. We like the small version but it also comes in a large size for those with more gear.

The Details: 4.5 x 2.25 x 5 inches | 5 ounces | Neoprene, recycled polyester | Waterproof

Mark & Graham Essential Tech Folio

Mark & Graham

Design details boost the overall look of the folio. 

It’s leather and can be ruined with excessive water exposure. 

With two-toned colorways and design details like angled leather pocket sleeves, this folio earns extra style points. Thankfully, it’s not looks over function as you use tasseled leather pulls to navigate the gold metal zip. Once opened, you’ll see one side with two inset sleeves, a change pocket, and cut-slots for your ID and other cards along with a spot for a tablet; the large version can fit a standard iPad but it also comes in a small size that fits an iPad Mini. The other side has well-spaced leather slip pockets for things like a wireless earbuds case, a smartphone, a passport, and thin loose charging cables. Giving it as a gift? You can go the extra mile and personalize it with a gold or silver foil embossed monogram or larger printed letters. This is a real leather product, so it’ll need to be handled with care. Wipe off and dry any water to avoid spotting or damage. 

The Details: 8.5 x 11 x 1 inches | Leather

Best Cable Organizer

Side by side cable organizer tech bag.

 It has a very packable shape and unbeatable storage capabilities (that even fits bulky PC chargers).

Most of its storage organization uses retention straps.

This organizer bag immediately stands out among others because of its shape. It goes against the grain of the usual boxy design and goes for slim length. We love it not only because this makes it extremely convenient to pack (especially in a duffel or backpack) but also because it requires less bending for your cords. It can accommodate long cords easily and manages to do what few tech organizers can: fit those thick PC charging cords , including the brick. The outer panels have a flexible compression fabric that holds items in place but can stretch to fit oddly shaped or oversized accessories. Items are stored in two separate zippered compartment sides, mostly using elastic retention straps of different sizes. There’s only one zippered pocket inside. It’s mesh and roughly the size of a credit card. 

The Details: 10.2 x 3.5 x 1.6 inches | 9 ounces | 300D polyester, elastane nylon

Best With Stand-up Case

Native union stow lite organizer.

It looks smart and is made from soft but durable recycled materials. 

There’s no handle or wrist strap.

This soft-sided tech organizer bag has an A-line silhouette that ensures it will stand up on its own, making it more convenient when you’re searching for something or loading it up before a trip. We like how simple but stylish it is. It's made from recycled plastic bottles with a leather zipper trim that kicks up the look (though we wrestled with the zipper a few times because of the trim). It’s a great pick for travelers who have a few specific items they want to store separately for quick access, but don’t mind tossing other items in the main pocket. The interior organization includes five lightly padded slip pockets for items like USB charging cords, Bluetooth mouse, and earbuds with the case. The main pocket can be a bit snug when the pockets are full but can generally fit an iPhone charger and MacBook charger (both with bricks), a slim charging bank, a few extra USB cables, and small wall adapters. One thing we found to be lacking? You can only carry it like a clutch — there’s no handle strap or detachable wristband. 

The Details: ‎4.53 x 7.48 x 2.56 inches | 3.18 ounces | Leather and recycled polyester | Water-repellent

Best Leather

Parker clay utility pouch.

Parker Clay

The beautiful and durable leather is sourced from Ethiopia.

The partially zippered opening can make it annoying to load.

If you’re the type of person who likes to keep their valuables close, this gorgeous leather tech pouch is carried like a clutch. It’s made from sustainable goat leather from Ethiopia, which looks as luxe as it feels against your palm. We like bringing this pouch in our personal item and packing it with our in-flight entertainment tech essentials like an iPad mini, Kindle, smartphone, earbuds with a case, and corresponding chargers. It’s also best unloaded at your seat since you’ll only get a two-thirds opening, which can block access and be especially frustrating when loading it up. On the plus side, a quick change of contents and this pouch can easily become a clutch. 

The Details: 10 x 7 x 0.25 inches | Leather

Best for Apple Products

Away the tech case.

It can fit a boxy universal travel adapter. 

The deep shape that takes up twice as much room as other comparable products.  

Away’s The Tech Case follows the brand’s reputation of high-quality travel gear that goes big on understated style and function. This soft-sided case is water-resistant and has a spacious dual level design that’s good for storing and organizing bulky tech accessories when traveling. The flip-top zipper closure has three retention bands that are the perfect size for storing USB charging cords and an earbuds case. On the opposite side, there’s a shallow compartment with a mesh panel that unzips, revealing access to a deeper bottom compartment where you can store your laptop charging cable, extension cable, and power brick. We like it because it’s possible to fit a universal plug adapter in this space, making it perfect for international travel. However, at over six inches in depth, it can be tougher to pack simply because of its own bulky shape; so keep that in mind if you’re primarily a carry-on traveler.

The Details: 6.3 x 4.7 x 2.95 inches | 3.7 ounces | Nylon  | Water-resistant

Best Fan-style

Inateck electronics case.

It’s a durable and simple organizer with great capacity. 

Since it opens like a book, not all the pockets have security features. 

If you’re the type of person who prefers to see all of your items at a glance, consider the Inateck Electronics Organizer Travel Case. It has a unique accordion fan design that opens like a book, neatly exposing its contents. You’ll still get great organization on the inside, too. The large size is approximately the size of a toiletry case and is big enough to fit a Nintendo Switch. The 1200D polyester material is hardy enough to hold up for frequent travelers and makes the bag water-repellent, too. Inside, you’ll find soft and stretchy lycra material with eight various slip pockets, a large velcro-secured pocket, and seven elastic retention straps. Unfortunately, most of the slip pockets do not have elastic rims or security straps, so you’ll want to be sure to have a flat surface since it opens up 180 degrees.  

The Details: 10.24 x 3.74 x 5.91 inches | 8.2 ounces | 1200D polyester | Water-repellent

Best Hardsisde

Procase hard travel electronic organizer case.

The water resistance and shock absorption give us extra piece of mind.

It works best for smaller items that aren’t too bulky. 

A hardside case is the way to go when it comes to protecting your most expensive tech accessories. This ProCase Hard Travel Electronics Organizer has a durable, water-resistant EVA shell and shock-absorbing lining that works double time to keep your electronics safe from spills, drops, and splashes. We like the convenient wristlet strap and dual-compartment design. The storage capacity is more than enough, with five zippered mesh pockets and two compression slip pockets. However, it’s not designed to hold bulky items; just smaller tech accessories, which is a bit of a bummer considering the overall size. If you need more space, opt for the large or extra-large versions.

The Details: 9.72 x 5.82 x 2.55 inches | 0.31 ounces | EVA | Water-resistant

Tips for Buying a Travel Tech Organizer

Know what items you need to store.

Take stock of your tech items to make sure your desired tech organizer has the capacity and capability to hold what you need it to. This is particularly important if you’ve got a bulky item or two, or if the majority of your stuff is small and easy to lose. If you’re having trouble finding an organizer that fits your needs, consider what your basic essentials are and what might be able to be safely and securely packed elsewhere. You’ll also want to consider where you’ll be packing the organizer to make sure it’ll fit in your bag while still giving you room to pack anything else you need. 

Consider durability and water resistance

Are you a frequent traveler or just preparing for a one-off trip? Frequent travelers will want to pay more attention to the durability of their tech organizer than someone who won’t be using the product repeatedly over a short period of time. Budget-friendly doesn’t always mean poorly-made, as you’ll see with our picks, and products with a higher price point may not deliver when it comes to key things like water resistance. Leather looks great and can look even better over time, but it’s easily ruined by scrapes and exposure to liquid. On the flip side, ripstop material like 600D polyester or EVA won’t look as luxurious but will last much longer and provide better protection against bumps, drops, and spills. Also, consider the quality of your organizer's zipper. This is an oft-overlooked detail that can make or break how much use you can get out of a product. Once the zipper breaks, it’s usually game over. 

Storing your tech in one spot while traveling helps you to keep track of it, especially the smaller pieces, while you’re away from home. Using a storage option with built-in organization keeps your sanity. Tossing your essentials into a single-pocket bag is convenient — until you need them, and tech organizers help to avoid the frantic fishing through your luggage for a charger or that important flash drive. They can also help keep cords from tangling, a major win and frustration saver.  

Depending on the size, you can pack your travel tech organizer in your checked bag, carry-on, or personal item. However, many travelers are wary of packing anything valuable like tech in their checked luggage for fear of theft or damage, plus you’ll want to make sure there are no power banks or other devices prohibited from the cargo hold. It’s most common to bring an organizer into the cabin which also allows you to access it during your travel day as needed. 

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this story, Katherine Alex Beaven did hours of research on the most popular and best-reviewed travel tech organizers to keep your tech gear organized. She also relied on insights from the Travel + Leisure team, who put several of these travel tech organizers to the test in real-world settings.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

To revisit this article, visit My Profile, then   View saved stories .

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Julian Chokkattu

The Best MagSafe Accessories for Your New iPhone

If you buy something using links in our stories, we may earn a commission. This helps support our journalism. Learn more . Please also consider subscribing to WIRED

First, Get a MagSafe Case Apple Silicone and FineWoven MagSafe Cases Read more

Grab a MagSafe Charger First- and Third-Party Chargers

Charge All Your Apple Gear Belkin 3-in-1 Wireless Charger With MagSafe Read more

For Long Gaming Sessions Razer Phone Cooler Chroma MagSafe Read more

A Magnet is one of those things that always remain wondrous. As a kid, I used to chase a broken magnet with its repelling end and pretend it was a cop car chasing a robber. Now, it’s similarly satisfying to slap magnetic accessories to the back of an iPhone . It just clicks into place! No wires, screws, or clamps to deal with. It’s wonderful.

MagSafe is the name of Apple’s accessory system that’s integrated into the iPhone 12 , iPhone 13 , iPhone 14 , and iPhone 15 range . A ring of magnets on the back of the phone (and in MagSafe-enabled cases) lets you attach various magnetic accessories, like a battery pack that recharges the iPhone wirelessly so you don’t need to hold it or carry a cable. We’ve covered protection for your iPhone in our Best iPhone 15 Cases , Best iPhone 14 Cases , and Best iPhone 13 Cases guides, but these are our favorite MagSafe accessories to increase their utility.

Updated October 2023: We’ve added testaccessories from Razer, OtterBox, Speck, and Caseology.

Special offer for Gear readers: Get WIRED for just $5 ($25 off) . This includes unlimited access to WIRED.com , full Gear coverage, and subscriber-only newsletters. Subscriptions help fund the work we do every day.

First, Get a MagSafe Case

If you’re anti-case, you can skip this pick. If you prefer protection (smart!), well then you shouldn't buy just any case for the iPhone 12, iPhone 13, or iPhone 14. A standard case will just weaken the magnetic attachment between the iPhone and the MagSafe accessory. Grab a MagSafe case instead—the official ones from Apple are totally fine, with a reliable ring of magnets inside. The silicone ones will do the job, and Apple has new FineWoven cases made of recycled materials to replace its previous leather cases. They all come in a variety of colors. The buttons remain clicky, the cutouts for the ports are accurate, and the entire bottom edge of the phone is protected too. (Though the silicone one tends to attract dust and lint.) The FineWoven case can scuff up easily and might discolor over time, but we'll have to wait and see how it shapes up.

We have plenty of other recommendations. Read our Best iPhone 15 Cases , Best iPhone 14 Cases , Best iPhone 13 Cases , and Best iPhone 12 Cases guides for more.

Grab a MagSafe Charger

Several brands sell MagSafe wireless chargers nearly identical to Apple's. Here are the models we've tested and like. Note: Most don't include a power adapter, so you'll want one that's at least 20 watts (like this one ).

• Apple MagSafe Charger for $39 : The official charger will charge your iPhone the fastest (15 watts) because it aligns to a very precise spot that allows for better power transfer. Unfortunately, the 3-foot cable is frustratingly short and makes it tough to use the phone while charging, unless you're right next to an outlet.
• Sonix Magnetic Link Wireless Charger for $25 : Apple's MagSafe Charger's cord is too short. Sonix remedies this with a cable that's 6.5 feet, making it easier to use the phone while it's charging. It's flat, so it stays put on a desk, and you can choose from an array of fun colors and designs. The downside is that it charges slightly more slowly.
• Spigen ArcField MagSafe Charger for $27 : Spigen's charger charges at 7.5 watts, which is slower than Apple's official charger, and it does not include a power adapter. The downside? The cable feels very flimsy.
• Courant Mag:1 Classics for $80 : Despite what Courant says on its website, this charger will recharge your iPhone at 7.5 watts like all the other third-party MagSafe chargers. Still, it's one of the most luxurious models I've tried, with lovely Italian leather mixed with matte aluminum. The braided cord is nice and long too (6 feet!). It's expensive, but if you choose the Mag:1 Essentials version , you can get a nice linen material for $43. It comes with a travel pouch but no charging adapter.
• Nomad Base One With MagSafe for $100 : Nomad's square wireless charger delivers the maximum 15-watt charging speed possible, but it's not meant to be held up while you use the phone, unlike the chargers above. Still, you get peace of mind with precise alignment, and this weighty charger won't slide around your desk. Nomad includes a USB-C-to-USB-C cable but no power adapter.

Charge All Your Apple Gear

I love this treelike wireless charger. It saves so much space on my desk, and I can recharge the iPhone at the fastest 15-watt charging speed possible, along with an Apple Watch and AirPods. It's a must-have for anyone who has all three of those devices (or any earbuds with wireless charging support). Belkin also has a pad version that adds MagSafe support for AirPods, but it takes up more room, and I much prefer the floating aesthetic. It's like magic! Read our Best 3-in-1 Apple Chargers guide for more recommendations.

★ Alternative: The Twelve South HiRise 3 Deluxe ($150) is perfect if you want to utilize Apple's new Standby mode in iOS 17 . Put it by your nightstand and place your iPhone in landscape orientation and it will show a clock on the screen, along with weather information. This 3-in-1 lets your iPhone sit front and center with no obstructions, plus it charges it at the max 15 watts. You can flip up the Apple Watch charger or leave it flat, and there's a spot on the back for AirPods (or another phone).

For Long Gaming Sessions

Game a lot on your iPhone? This is a phone cooler that magnetically sticks to the back of your device. Plug it into a power source via the included USB-C cable, flip the switch on, and the fan will roar to life (it's actually fairly quiet). It'll keep your iPhone ice-cool as you game. In my benchmark tests, the iPhone using the cooler delivered 30 percent more stable performance, with higher frame rates over a longer period of time. That makes this a must-have.

You can pair it with the Razer Phone Cooler app to toggle the fan speed settings or turn off the RGB lights, but that's not necessary.

Benj Edwards, Ars Technica

Scott Gilbertson

A 2-in-1 Charger

If you want to charge AirPods or any other wireless earbuds with wireless charging support alongside your iPhone at the end of the day, this 2-in-1 has you covered. Belkin’s smart design comes in black or white with a shiny metallic post connecting the MagSafe charging pad to the wide-weighted base. It charges at the maximum 15-watt rate, and you can turn your iPhone sideways for iOS 17’s new StandBy mode , converting it into a bedside alarm clock.

Use Your iPhone as a Webcam

In 2022, Apple added a feature called Continuity Camera that lets you use your iPhone as a webcam for a MacBook. The process is wireless and simple—you can see instructions on how it operates here —and it supports a variety of video calling apps, from FaceTime to Zoom. The image quality is significantly better than the standard MacBook camera because it uses the rear camera of the iPhone. But holding your phone as you use it as a MacBook webcam is tricky. Enter the Belkin Mount.

This circular silicone puck magnetically sticks to the back of your iPhone and can be used as a phone grip or kickstand. When it's time to use your iPhone as a webcam, there's a section that pops out so you can mount the iPhone on top of a MacBook to get a more natural video-calling experience. You need to keep your screen close to a 90-degree angle, or else the weight of the iPhone will drag the screen back or forward. The mount itself isn't particularly pretty and tends to attract dust and lint, but it's otherwise quite effective at keeping the iPhone where it needs to be. There's also a mount for external displays, in case you want one for your home desk setup.

Stay Topped Up With a Battery

Why fuss with cables when you have MagSafe? These portable chargers can stick to the back of your iPhone and recharge it wirelessly, and you don't need to carry an extra cable.

Our favorite is the Anker 622. This slim 5,000-mAh power bank will charge your iPhone just once (and will barely recharge an iPhone 14 Pro Max to full), but it's compact and comes with a built-in kickstand to prop up the iPhone in landscape or portrait orientation. You can use the USB-C port on the side to recharge the portable charger or your iPhone if you need to do the job faster. You can also power off the battery if you only want to use the kickstand. Do note that the screen wobbles a little when you use it on the kickstand. We have plenty of other recommendations in our dedicated Best MagSafe Power Banks guide . Check it out!

★ Alternative: If you also want to juice up your Apple Watch, I like OtterBox's 2-in-1 Power Bank With MagSafe ($150) . It's bulky, but you get a 10,000-mAh capacity with a wireless charging stand that can be propped up or laid flat (it fast-charges at 15 watts too). You can keep your iPhone in landscape for Standby mode or in portrait. If you need a faster charge for your devices, you can use the USB-C charging port. The rubber grips at the base prevent it from sliding around too much.

Keep It Safe With a Grip

MagSafe phone grips don't require any adhesives. Just pop ’em magnetically to the back of your iPhone or MagSafe case for added security. You can take them off whenever to recharge the phone wirelessly or use another MagSafe accessory. Talk about hassle-free! That said, magnets are only so strong. Don't hold the phone by the grip alone—a little effort can separate the magnets.

My favorite of all the grips I've tried is the PopSockets MagSafe PopGrip. Snap the elongated oval to the back of your iPhone and push out the grip—voilà, you have an effortless way to hold onto your phone. Like with any other PopSocket, you can swap out the top for another style , and it can even act as a kickstand to keep your iPhone propped up in landscape mode. If the PopGrip speaks to you, it's worth looking at PopSockets' PopCase ($60) , which comes with an integrated grip you can slide off and MagSafe support.

★ Alternative: If you want something a bit more compact, I like Casetify's Snappy Grip Stand ($38) . Like all of Casetify's products, there are practically a million designs to choose from. You can pull out the top part of the puck and it will work as a phone grip. Push this a little toward the center, and it will stay put as a kickstand in any orientation. Neat!

Mount Your iPhone to Your Bike

With my old bike mount, I had to wrangle rubber straps around my phone to secure it to my handlebars. It took a few minutes! With Peak Design's Universal Bike Mount, the whole process takes a second. And it's more secure than many other MagSafe mounts because it locks the iPhone in place. (You'll need to push a button to unlock it and remove the iPhone, but you can do it with one hand.) After many miles on roads of varying degrees of quality, my iPhone has yet to fall off. The only quirk? You have to use Peak Design's Everyday Case for it to work with the mount. You can attach other MagSafe accessories to the back of the case just fine (and it still supports wireless charging). Nomad also made a Rugged Case ($60) with Peak Design's SlimLink mount if you want more protection.

Peak Design sells other MagSafe gear that works with its own system, from wireless chargers to a tripod mount .

Dock Your iPhone at Your Desk

These three Anker MagGo charging docks are seriously great. The Anker 637 desktop charging station is the most useful day-to-day. The front of the orb is where you can stick your iPhone to wirelessly charge it, but on the back are two USB-C ports, two USB-A ports, and three AC outlets. It makes managing all those pesky cables under the desk so much easier. Then there's the Anker 623 magnetic wireless charger. This dock looks a bit like a flask, but the top “lid” has a hinge, allowing it to be angled out. That's where you place your iPhone to recharge it wirelessly, and you can adjust the angle so it sits upright. In this position, you can plop your AirPods behind the iPhone to recharge them wirelessly at the same time.

Arguably the most ingenious of the lot is the Anker 633, which is essentially a magnetic wireless charging stand that suspends the iPhone in midair. (You can adjust the viewing angle.) But the attachment point doubles as a 5,000-mAh battery. Just slide it out and take it with you, and you can attach it to your iPhone whenever it's low on juice. No need to remember to recharge the battery pack—slide it back into the dock and it'll take care of that for you! Better yet, the base can also recharge the AirPods Pro wirelessly. Truly smart. 

Rev Up With a Car Mount

Compact and discreet, this vent mount has clingy prongs and a powerful array of magnets to ensure MagSafe-enabled iPhones don't budge an inch, even on bumpy roads. It can wirelessly charge your iPhone at the maximum 15-watt rate. An adjustable ball joint allows you to angle your phone for a better view. The USB-C cable is long and permanently attached, and it comes with a plug-in charger for folks without USB-C ports in their car. We have an option for folks who prefer a dash mount below, but you can find several alternatives in our Best Car Phone Accessories guide .

Or a Dash Mount

If your vents are awkward, or you just prefer a dash or windshield mount, this iOttie option has a suction cup. It stays in place well, and the magnets are strong enough to keep your iPhone from violently flying off when you go over a pothole. The telescopic arm combines with a ball joint to give you a wide range of movement to find the ideal position. The 7.5-watt charging rate is disappointing, but I like that the USB-C charging cable is removable, so you can detach and stow it when your iPhone is topped up. The built-in fan also helps to keep the temperature down when the sun is out.

Stick a Wallet on the Back

Don't want the bulk of a wallet case? Use a MagSafe wallet! They stick to the back of your iPhone or a MagSafe case so you can carry your transit cards or license. Just know that most of these wallets could get dislodged if you stuff your phone into a particularly tight pocket (and none of them hold more than three cards).

• Smartish Side Hustle MagSafe Wallet for $30 : Despite the low price, this is one of the easiest MagSafe wallets to use. I could comfortably fit three cards inside. It was easy to push them out thanks to the gap on the side, and I didn't have to take the wallet off the phone. I vigorously shook the wallet and my cards didn't fall out, even if I only had one in there. It comes in an array of styles and they're all made from vegan leather.
• Caseology Nano Pop MagSafe Kickstand Wallet for $22 : This smart design lets you insert two cards into the main sleeve and one into the inner sleeve once you open the kickstand up. It's easy to push the cards out via the gap in the back or the bottom, and the kickstand function works with both landscape and portrait orientation.
• Speck ClickLock MagSafe Wallet for $30 : You'll want to pair this with Speck's ClickLock iPhone case to take advantage of the locking mechanism that keeps the wallet on the back of your device more secure than MagSafe alone. You can fit approximately three cards in it, and they won't fly out.
• Apple FineWoven MagSafe Wallet for $59 : This official one is simple. It has just a single slot that can fit two or three credit cards. It can be difficult to take out a card, but the trick is to remove the wallet and push your cards up via the hole in the back (and snap it back to your phone when done). It works with Apple's Find My app, so you'll get alerts any time you separate it from your phone. This is Apple's new FineWoven material, which is made from recycled materials.
• ESR Magnetic Wallet HaloLock With Find My for $46 : This is one of the few third-party wallets with Find My support, so if you leave it behind, you can use Apple's app to try to locate it. After six months, the battery has barely lost much charge, so you don't have to recharge it often. Too bad it requires a proprietary cable—you're out of luck if you lose it. I do like that you can use the flap on the back as a grip, and you can fit two cards comfortably.
• PopWallet+ for MagSafe for $40 : Love PopSockets? Now you can merge one with a wallet. The magnets are surprisingly strong, and it holds around three cards. The cloth dip at the bottom lets you push out your cards instead of prying them out. Like any good PopSocket, you can use the grip whenever you want to keep your iPhone securely in your hand.

Multipurpose Kickstand

This ESR accessory is a MagSafe power bank and wallet. The 5,000 mAh added around 75 percent to my iPhone 14 Pro’s battery, and there is room on the back to slide in a couple of credit cards (or ID). But the best thing about this gadget is that the entire back hinges open to swing through 50 degrees, which allows you to find the perfect angle to prop your iPhone securely in portrait or landscape orientation. We recommend this and several alternatives in our Best MagSafe Power Banks guide .

A Headphone Stand and Wireless Charger

I love multipurpose gadgets. Why waste valuable desk real estate with a simple wireless charger when you can have a combo that does the same and holds your headphones? Satechi's headphone stand looks elegant, and the sturdy rubberized base has no problem carrying my headphones when they're out of use. A spot on the stand holds your cables out of the way, which comes in handy if you use the spare USB-C port on the base to recharge your wireless headphones as they dangle. 

The base doubles as a MagSafe charger that will recharge your iPhone at 7.5 watts, and it's managed to magnetically hold everything from the iPhone 13 Pro Max to the iPhone 14 Pro with no trouble. Just know that Satechi doesn't include a power adapter, so you'll need one that can at least hit 18 watts, like this one . 

An Apple Travel Charging Kit

Do you need to spend $150 on a charging solution like this? No. But if price is no object, and you have an Apple Watch, iPhone, and AirPods with a wireless charging case, it's really hard to dislike Mophie's 3-in-1 MagSafe wireless charger. It can juice up your iPhone at the full 15-watt speed, the Apple Watch puck pops up for nightstand mode, and the third spot is for your AirPods with the wireless charging case or AirPods Pro (it's hit or miss whether other wireless earbuds will recharge). The whole thing folds upon itself into a very compact size, and Mophie includes a little felt travel case with a charging cable and adapter. It's a neat solution and is much better than carrying several different cables and chargers.

Keep It Steady on a Tripod

There's something about having a product do one thing exceptionally well. If you just want a way to reliably prop up your iPhone in a variety of angles without having to carry anything larger than a wallet, then you might like this Tripod Stand from Moft. The magnets are really strong, and you can practically put your iPhone in any angle. It's simple to use too—there's no big learning curve. It's super lightweight, and because it doesn't double as anything else (like a wallet or battery pack), you don't have to remember to take cards out or recharge it. Just keep it in your bag whenever you need it.

A Versatile Mini Tripod

Clamping a phone onto a tripod can be annoying. Buttons get pressed, your case might be too thick, or the iPhone just might slip out of your hands in the process. None of that will happen with this MagSafe tripod. The circular mount has magnets embedded, so it takes a second to attach an iPhone to this thing. There are clamps that slide out in case you want additional security (or you want to attach a non-MagSafe iPhone). The bottom half is the classic GorillaPod bendy tripod system you can mold to stay secure pretty much anywhere, and the mount can be removed and attached to most other tripods. Two threads also mean you can hook up video lights or a microphone.

For Serious Content Creators

I used this mount at the Apple event to put the iPhone on my full-size camera tripod. It came in clutch! This Creator Kit uses Peak Design's aforementioned SlimLink mount system, so you'll need a Peak Design mobile case to take advantage. However, this works with so many systems: GoPro mounts, quarter-inch 20 mounts, Peak Design's very own Capture Clip, and Arca tripods. It's super easy to take the phone off the Creator Kit one-handed—just push one of the buttons on the mount.

Lights, Camera, Action!

If you're a budding cinematographer, Moment's Mobile Filmmaker Cage is arguably the best accessory to snag. Your iPhone magnetically sticks to the center mount, and you can add all sorts of other gear to the various cold shoe and attachment points on the cage around—lights, mics, you name it. Then use the cage as a grip! No need to touch your iPhone and cause unnecessary shakes. It's seriously awesome.

Moment has a ton of other MagSafe mounts if you don't need to go all out with the cage—like a Tripod Mount . Moment still sells filters  and excellent mobile lenses if you want more unique photos and videos, but you'll need a Moment case and a drop-in lens mount for them to work.

Dress Up Your MagSafe Charger

Apple's MagSafe charger is one of few that charges the iPhone at the fastest speed possible (wirelessly). But if you're tired of it sliding around your bedside table, you can house it in a third-party pad or stand to keep it stable. That makes it harder to use the phone while charging, but if that's no issue, I like these options. Just remember, the wireless charger itself isn't included below; these only work with Apple's official charger .

• Twelve South Forte for $40 : Slot in your Apple MagSafe Charger and this stand will make it seem like your iPhone is floating. There's room to use your phone in landscape or portrait orientation, and you can tilt it up or down to find the best viewing angle. You can even tilt the charger all the way up so it sits flat, which allows you to wirelessly recharge your AirPods Pro.
• Nomad MagSafe Mount Stand for $60 : I love the simple and utilitarian design of this all-metal stand. The zinc alloy mount is heavy , and the rubber foot makes it sit securely on a desk. You can place your iPhone on it vertically or horizontally, but my favorite part is how easy it is to take the MagSafe Charger out. If you prefer a pad, Nomad sells one .
• Grovemade Wood MagSafe Stand for $165 : It's ridiculously expensive, but this wood converter makes Apple's charger look much more fashionable. It's heavy too, so it won't slide around. Just slot the charging pad in, and it'll stay secure via an adhesive surface. You can remove the pad and reattach it, though that requires some force. Grovemade also has a pad .
• Spigen Mag Fit for $15 : Here's a much more affordable option. It's not as aesthetically pleasing, but the adhesive on the bottom keeps the pad pretty secure on your desk or nightstand, and the charger easily slots into the thermoplastic polyurethane shell. If you have an Apple Watch, I like the Mag Fit Duo ($23) , which has a spot to insert your watch charger.
• Oakywood MagSafe iPhone Mounts for $80+: These wood and metal mounts ooze luxury. They're attractive and well built, and their great vehicles to house your MagSafe charger (and even your Apple Watch charging puck !). You don't have to use them with the charger either. Oakywood sells a MagSafe Puck ($19) you can insert into these docks, which means no charging capabilities, but you can use it as a way to hold your iPhone near the kitchen as you use it for recipes.

MagSafe Accessories to Avoid

These accessories aren't necessarily bad per se, they just have one issue or another that put them a rung below the rest. Hence, you should probably avoid them.

Moft Snap Stand Power Set for $80 : It's a nice-looking battery pack, and it comes with the Moft wallet we recommend above—you can stick the wallet to the back of the battery, which is a nice touch. But the battery capacity is so small! At 3,400 mAh, I couldn't even recharge an iPhone 14 back to 100 from 20 percent. That's too small for what you're paying.

Anker 622 MagSafe Battery With PopSockets for $70 : This 5,000-mAh battery does the job, with LEDs to indicate how much juice is left, and it has a built-in PopSockets grip, meaning you get a firm hold on the phone while the added bulk tops off your phone's battery. The problem? The back of the battery gets abnormally hot—much more than many other battery packs I've tried. That's worrying.

Ohsnap! Snap 3 Pro for $30 : I hate this MagSafe grip. It feels flimsy and cheap, and the center ring constantly comes out of its place when I try to use the kickstand mode, which doesn't work that well. You can do better for this price.

Speck ClickLock StandyGrip for $30 : I wanted to like this kickstand/grip combo, but the kickstand doesn't quite close properly once you use it a few times. Avoid it!

Matt Jancer

Medea Giordano

Brenda Stolyar

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RS Recommends: The Most Festival-Friendly Phone Lanyards for Your Next Concert

By Natalli Amato

Natalli Amato

If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Rolling Stone may receive an affiliate commission.

Whether you’re racing through an airport or at a festival, having the best cell phone lanyard can help you always keep track of your device, while also making sure you always have access to it. Here’s everything you need to know about buying the best crossbody pick for your device.

Buying Guide: How to Pick the Best Cell Phone Lanyard

The best cell phone lanyards are made with durable materials and are expertly designed to keep your phone safe and attached, even when you’re in fast-paced situations like at a game or a concert. Along with their durability, it’s important to consider the style of the lanyard, and to pick one that can fit your phone comfortably.

Style, Size, and Extra Features: The best cell phone lanyards come in a variety of styles, including crossbody versions. Some attach to your phone by using a rubber webbing that wraps snugly around each corner and edge. Others are just like phone cases, except with the added lanyard straps. If you already have a phone case that you prefer, there are also crossbody phone lanyards that work with your existing case. They have tear-proof adhesive pads that stick onto your phone underneath its case with small tabs that connect to the lanyard.

Each of these styles works well. Choosing the best cell phone lanyard for you will depend on whether or not you have an existing phone case and if you’d like extra features such as credit cardholders.

The Best Cell Phone Lanyards

We’ve selected four of the best cell phone phone lanyards that will help you carry your phone hands-free without a problem this season.

1. Gear Beast Universal Phone Lanyard

This crossbody phone lanyard from Gear Beast has it all, including a heavy-duty clip, a thick, adjustable strap, and a swivel clip for your keys. It also features a convenient card slot, plus silicone webbing that wraps around your phone whether you use a case or not. Its high functionality and rugged durability make it the most protective lanyard to take with you on the road.

Buy Gear Beast Universal Phone Lanyard $12.75

2. Vofolen Call Phone Lanyard

When you’re traveling, your phone isn’t the only personal item that you need to keep secure and accessible. Your ID, credit cards, and any passes or tickets are all equally important. That’s why this crossbody phone lanyard, which attaches to your phone as a case, also doubles as a wallet. We love this design for how discreet it is. Rather than leaving your cards partially visible like some cardholders, the wallet portion of the phone case actually closes.

Buy Vofolen Call Phone Lanyard $14.99

3. Red Color Series Lanyard Pack

These bright, colorful crossbody phone lanyards are compatible with all phone types and come in a pack of four. Simply attach the adhesive pad onto the back of your phone, snap your case back on, and start enjoying the ease of carrying your phone hands-free. The lanyard itself is adjustable, so you can wear it across your body or around your neck, depending on your preference.

Buy Red Color Series Lanyard Pack $9.49

4. OUTXE Phone Lanyard Pack

This affordable bundle is all about value. You get two adjustable crossbody lanyards and four durable adhesive patches to use with your device. You can share them with friends and family, or keep them should you ever need a replacement. The lanyards are made with soft, skin-friendly nylon. Thanks to the comfort and practicality, this crossbody lanyard will quickly become one of your everyday accessories.

Buy OUTXE Phone Lanyard Pack $8.99

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